The Woman's Club of White Plains
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • MEMBERSHIP
    • MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
    • BOARD MEMBERS
    • LEGACY LADIES
    • CLUB ACTIVITIES
    • MEMBER DISCOUNT PROGRAM
    • CLUB DIAL
    • CALENDAR
    • JUNIOR TEENS
  • EVENTS
  • THRIFT SHOP
  • NEWS
  • RENTAL & CATERING
  • Contact

Early History


Picture
In 1904, fifteen women formed the Fortnightly Literary Club devoted to discussion of literature, art and current issues. It grew rapidly and ultimately divided into the New Century Club and the Woman’s Club, each with different goals. In 1916, under the guidance of our first president Belle Knight, the two merged to become the Contemporary Club and is now known as The Woman's Club of White Plains. From this modest beginning grew one of the largest woman's clubs in the United States, boasting a membership of 900 at one time. Currently, we still enjoy one of the largest enrollments in our area.

The Club purchased its clubhouse, the CV Rich Mansion, in 1931 and immediately embarked on the addition of an auditorium/ballroom. Completed in 1932, plans originally incorporated a full balcony - hence the high ceilings. The art deco sconces are original and in working order. Even though our location at the time was considered to be "in the country," this venue attracted well-known entertainers of the era including Tallulah Bankhead, Ethel Barrymore, and Cora Witherspoon. Other well-known figures have visited the Woman’s Club including Eleanor Roosevelt, Helen Keller, author David McCullough and actor Jack Klugman.

The history of The Woman's Club of White Plains is one of caring and dedication by its members. Even a casual observer can discern how attention is given to the details around our lovely clubhouse which is maintained appropriately for a home of its era and updated tastefully. For instance, we now enjoy air conditioning in these century old rooms!

The CV Rich Mansion

Through savvy fundraising and investing, members were able to purchase what was originally the CV Rich Mansion in 1931. Built in 1911, it was originally situated over 40 acres of land. Presently, the clubhouse remains the centerpiece of a three-acre plot. The carriage house is now a private home on Ridgeway Circle.
For more information on the history of the CV Rich Mansion, click here.
Picture

Present Day


The mission of our club is specifically devoted to the promotion of civic and educational programs in the community. Throughout the year, the philanthropy committee and club members are busy planning and performing community service and conduct wide-ranging events to support local charities. We emphasize giving back to the community, both financial and in-kind, and are always open to suggestion for future deserving applicants. Virtually all of White Plains has benefited at one time or another from our fund- raising efforts including the library, scholarship committee at the high school, YWCA, battered women, homeless, courthouse and many others. As our members become aware of and involved in these efforts, it produces a "snowball effect"  with more and more  members reaching  out to local organizations and expanding our outreach. 

In 2010, The Woman’s Club of White Plains Foundation was formed to handle our club’s philanthropic efforts. The Woman’s Club of White Plains Foundation is a 501(c) (3) charity.

While the club enriches White Plains in general, members do enjoy their own social functions and the companionship of their fellow members. The year is marked by many opportunities to socialize with one another and guests including craft fairs, gala dinner dances, film nights, casual dinners, Holiday teas, entertainers and lecturers covering a wide-range of topics.

The Woman's Club of White Plains remains proud of its history and traditions which are well illustrated by its members of the past 100 years. We hope to continue our mission well into the 21st century, incorporating the needs of the coming generations while remaining true to our roots.
Learn more about our MEMBERSHIP.

WCWP

ABOUT
MEMBERSHIP
EVENTS
​
CLUB ACTIVITIES
NEWS
RENTAL & CATERING
CONTACT


The Woman's Club of White Plains Foundation  is a 501(c)(3) charity © COPYRIGHT 2017. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • MEMBERSHIP
    • MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
    • BOARD MEMBERS
    • LEGACY LADIES
    • CLUB ACTIVITIES
    • MEMBER DISCOUNT PROGRAM
    • CLUB DIAL
    • CALENDAR
    • JUNIOR TEENS
  • EVENTS
  • THRIFT SHOP
  • NEWS
  • RENTAL & CATERING
  • Contact