Working Together Before, During, and After the Progressive Era: The Legacy of Women’s Clubs in Idaho

HannaLore Hein, Idaho State Historian

May 3, 2021

 

Program Description:  This presentation will explore the circumstances that allowed for the development of women’s clubs in the United States between the early 1800s and early 1900s and the underlying ideologies and sentiments that spurred the growth of activism and organizing during Progressive Era. With this foundation the presentation will then explore the emergence of women’s clubs in Idaho, the specific work of these clubs, and the impact that these clubs had in their communities. The work of club women at the turn of the century supported various facets of the community, including health, education, the arts and humanities, and political and civic engagement. The presentation will end with an exploration of how some of these clubs adapted and continued to serve their community well into the 20th and 21st centuries, and how, thanks to the record keeping of these organizations, we (with the help of historians) can learn from the women leaders of the past.

Bio:  HannaLore graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in History and Ethnic Studies from the University of Colorado, Boulder and received a Western American Studies certificate from the Center of the American West. She has a M.A. in Applied Historical Research from Boise State University.

HannaLore has served on the Boise State Alumni Association Board of Directors since May 2016 and is also heavily involved with The Junior League of Boise, Inc. She has served on the Tango Boise, Inc. Board of Directors and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Center of the American West.