History
In 1914, a small group of college-educated women wanted a place to meet friends, continue their learning, and enjoy cultural and social activities together. That is why they created the Women's University Club of Seattle. By 1922, membership had grown to over 600 and—unusual for the era—these determined women had built their very own clubhouse.
For nearly a century, the Club has thrived by striking a crucial balance: meeting the changing needs of our members with enthusiasm while staying true to our founding ideals: laugh together, learn together and be our best selves.
Club Trustee DR. MABEL SEAGRAVE (pictured right) receives the Medaile d'Argent from the government of France for war work managing a hospital for 10,000 refugees.
BERTHA KNIGHT LANDES, a charter member of the Club, becomes the first woman mayor of Seattle.
The guest speaker at the Anniversary Dinner is the one of the most famous women in the country: First Lady ELEANOR ROOSEVELT.
Nationally known Pacific Northwest artist MARK TOBEY gives art classes for Club members in his studio.
International authority on cooking JAMES BEARD presents a dinner talk on Patio Cooking and the Spice of Life.
The Club takes great pride in having SEVENTY-FIVE PAIRS OF MOTHER-DAUGHTER MEMBERS who are recognized at the annual Family Tree Luncheon. For years member FRANCIS MacBRIDE decorated the event with hundreds of begonias from her Woodinville estate, now the site of Chateau St. Michelle Winery.
TONY ANGELL, well-known artist, author, environmentalist and bird-watcher is a guest at a special luncheon. The Club acquires his sculpture Preening Morganser for its collection.
Local travel writer (and soon to be a national TV star) RICK STEVES speaks about his new book, Europe Through the Back Door.
Actress CLAIRE BLOOM is the first speaker sponsored by the Opal Orr Fund "a memorial endowment for educational lectures and programs which benefit all."
JUDY DONNELLY, who started at the Club as a receptionist in 1980, accepts the position of Executive Manager and maintains the position today.
Seattle librarian, author and literary critic NANCY PEARL continues her reign as WUC's favorite presenter at Book Review—the oldest continuing program.
As current members begin to prepare for the 100th Anniversary of its landmark clubhouse in 2022, it is even more important to share the story of the Club with friends, family and colleagues. Prospective members can expect an enriching experience because at the WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY CLUB — WE LAUGH. WE LEARN. WE LEAD.