Mount Prospect Woman's Club starts village's library

In 1927, a group of women met over cups of coffee in Mount Prospect's one-room Central Schoolhouse, a meeting place heated by a coal stove and with an outside pump as its only source of water.

Under such uncomfortable conditions, a constitution was formed; Mrs. Charles Pakonian (of course no one took note of her first name!) was elected president; and the Mount Prospect Woman's Club was formed.

Initially founded as an independent organization, it became affiliated with the Illinois Federation of Women's Clubs in the 1930s. Then, in 1940, members decided to further expand their allegiance to include the National Federation.

While its members have been known to sing "America" and "Home, Sweet Home" at meetings, the club was and is a serious philanthropic organization, focused on improving Mount Prospect through mutual helpfulness. From organizing a "Beautify Mount Prospect" program to awarding college scholarships to students, the club has worked to serve the community and its inhabitants.

Perhaps its greatest contribution to the village is the Mount Prospect Public Library. Begun as a single bookshelf in the Central School in 1929, for many years the library was dependent on woman's club members who willingly volunteered their time to collect books and funds for its operation. The club continued to operate the library until it became tax-supported in 1943.

Throughout its existence, the Mount Prospect Woman's Club has donated money to the Mount Prospect Public Library, Mount Prospect Fire Department, Mount Prospect Police Department, Mount Prospect Historical Society and many other village organizations.

Led today by President Jodi Hanson, the club boasts 58 members. It plans to host a show of 1917 fashions at The Cotillion on Saturday, May 6, in honor of the village's Centennial. Check www.mountprospect100.org for details.