Chat Work Club
Portland, San Patricio County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Formed by a group of thirty three women of Valentine's Day, 1921, the Chat Work Club derived its name from the members practice of working on sewing projects while conversing with each other. In 1925, they began raising funds for a portland public library, and by 1933 a building was completed. Beginning with 291 books, the library grew over the years and has occupied a number of structures. The original library building was moved to this site in 1983. The members of the Chat Work Club remain active in community affairs.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
On Valentine's Day 1921, thirty-three women formed the Chat Work Club, named for their habit of sewing while they talked. Turning their gatherings toward civic good, they began raising money for a public library in Portland in 1925 and saw a building completed by 1933, opening with 291 books. The club's original library building was later moved to this site, and its members have stayed active in community affairs.
Why it matters
Women's clubs like this one founded a great many of America's public libraries, showing how organized women shaped civic life long before they held formal political power.
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