History

The Norwich Women's Club had its origin in 1907, as the Women's Literary Club of Norwich. Since its beginning, the Club has promoted cultural, educational, civic, and charitable aspects of life in Norwich.

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The Club holds its very popular Nearly New Sale clothing consignment event each October. Since its start in 1964, sale proceeds have provided over  $800,000 in post-secondary education scholarships to Norwich residents through the Norwich Women's Club Scholarship fund. This is administered by VSAC (Vermont Student Assistance Corporation).

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Over the years, the Club has held other major fundraisers, including Floribunda, a Spring Gala, the Bathrobe Gala (COVID era), and Celebrate Norwich! These have been designed to bring together the members of the community to honor a Norwich resident as Citizen of the Year, and enjoy a glimpse of spring in the Upper Valley.

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Our other direct financial contributions to the Norwich community, through our Community Projects Grant Program, are numerous. This includes installation of the Town of Norwich sign, summer concerts on the town green, and our triangle garden in the center of town. We have also supported the Norwich Public Library, Norwich Historical Society, Marion Cross School, Willing Hands, and the Upper Valley Trails Alliance, to name a few Norwich-based organizations. We also provide grant support to organizations that may be based in surrounding Upper Valley towns but benefit Norwich residents. This includes the Upper Valley Land Trust's Brookmead Food Pantry Garden, Hartford/Norwich Holiday Baskets, and the Upper Valley Rowing Foundation.

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The Club's fundraising efforts are made possible by many volunteers from Norwich and surrounding towns. We could not do all that we do without them.

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Membership is open to women from Norwich and any other surrounding towns. New members are always welcome.

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Besides fundraising events, the Club offers a number of cultural and social events during the year. We have a monthly Coffee and Conversation gathering at the Norwich Inn, our Annual Meeting in June, a fall gathering, and a winter party. We host a Norwich Candidates' Forum in February to give the public the opportunity to meet and hear from candidates running for any open Selectboard positions. The annual Book and Author event, usually held in the spring, is a fun opportunity to hear from a local author discussing their work.
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Our Club website and Facebook page provide details of upcoming events, though you can always ask questions through our email account: norwichwomensclub@gmail.com