The History of the Woman's Club of White Plains

In 1904, fifteen women gathered together in a button factory in White Plains and called themselves the Fortnightly Literary Club. From this modest beginning grew one of the largest Woman's Clubs in the United States; at one time having boasted a membership of 900.

Through the proceeds of the sale of two pieces of White Plains property, in 1924 they purchased what is now the Woman's Club of White Plains. The house, built in 1910 and owned by the C.V. Rich family, was situated on over forty acres of land, some of which was sold for building lots. Presently, the Club house remains the center of a three acre plot. The Carriage house, now a private home on Ridgeway Circle behind the clubhouse, was once connected by an underground tunnel to the main house. (It was probably put to good use during prohibition as a still was rumored to be in its basement.)

The most spectacular features of the house are the 18th century Vernett oil on canvas murals that cover the Dining Room walls, It wasn't until 1948 that the brown shellacked walls were uncovered, discovering these treasures.

With the increase membership, the addition of an auditorium/ballroom became necessary. Completed in 1932, it was hoped that the full-sized standard stage would produce revenue from a summer theatre to help defray building costs. Original plans included a full balcony which never materialized - thus the reason for the high ceiling. All of the art deco scones are original and in working order. Ethel Barrymore, Tallulah Bankhead, among other personalities acted on the stage.

Since 1916, members have raised and contributed over $500,000 to local philanthropies.