Fifty-two women. A shared dream. That’s the story etched into this Married Ladies Social Art and Charity Club Plaque. Before you stands a testament to resilience. It’s a tribute to a group of remarkable women. They shaped Houston’s history.
This plaque commemorates the Married Ladies Social Art and Charity Club of America. Founded in 1902 by twelve women. These women were leaders in Houston’s affluent African American community. Their vision extended beyond personal gain. Their goal was community betterment.
They met in homes. Monthly dues were a mere five cents. A waiting list existed. Membership was capped at seventy-five. Only “respectable” married women. Women adhering to high moral standards. These were women of impeccable character. They embodied the club’s ideals.
Their early work included sewing for children. They decorated floats for Juneteenth parades. They even provided lodging. Prominent Black visitors faced Jim Crow restrictions. The club offered refuge and support. They helped victims of the devastating 1912 Fifth Ward fire. This club was a lifeline. For decades they donated to numerous causes. They uplifted Houston’s Black community. They supported the elderly.
The club evolved. They purchased land in 1932. Plans for an old folks home were made. Circumstances shifted. The land was leased to Humble Oil Company. Later it was sold. In 1939 they incorporated. They published a yearbook in the mid-1940s. Under President S H Ross they housed battered women. They aided in job placement. Donations to the NAACP followed. Riverside General Hospital also benefited from their efforts.
In the 1950s they bought their first clubhouse. It was located at 1902 Berry Avenue. In 1966 the city acquired the building. State Highway 288 was constructed on the site. A new location was found. On July 2 1967 a new clubhouse opened. It was at 1814 Southmore Boulevard.
The 1970s brought financial challenges. The members persevered. By the 1980s membership rules adjusted. Widows could join. All women meeting strict requirements were welcome. The club continued its mission.
Today the Married Ladies Social Art and Charity Club of America continues its legacy. Math and reading clinics are offered. Scholarships are awarded. Book giveaways take place. The quilting circle donates to M D Anderson Cancer Center. Riverside General Hospital and Project Row Houses also benefit from their efforts. In 2010 a Texas Historical Marker was received. This plaque stands as a reminder. It is a tribute to the oldest surviving civic organization of Black women in Houston and Texas. The remarkable story continues.