This post was written by Grace Collins, Summer 2024 Texas Collection Intern
Nestled along Bosque Boulevard in Waco, Texas, stands a grand Victorian house on 2900 Bosque, a prominent landmark in the city’s history. This stately home, built in 1926, has been the clubhouse of the Texas Federation of Women’s Clubs since 1953. Over the decades, various clubs have called this residence their home, including the Waco Section of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW). The NCJW, active in Waco from 1912 to 1966, has left behind a wealth of materials that offer a fascinating glimpse into their impact on the local community and beyond.
NCJW headquarters at 2900 Bosque Blvd. in Waco
The roots of the NCJW in Waco trace back to 1912, when the local chapter was established. This period marked the beginning of a significant era for the organization, which had earlier iterations dating back to 1901. By 1914, the Waco Section had affiliated with the Waco Federation of Women’s Clubs, a move that connected them with a broader network of women’s groups and amplified their influence.
In 1915, the NCJW published a cookbook that reflected not only the culinary tastes of its members but also provided a snapshot of Waco during the post-World War I era. This cookbook is more than a collection of recipes; it is a historical document that offers insights into local businesses and the community’s social fabric at the time. Cookbooks like these were a common project among women’s clubs, serving as fundraising tools.
The NCJW’s impact was furthered by the establishment of a junior club in the early 1920s. This junior division engaged in various activities, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to fostering young leaders and community involvement. Documents from this period reveal the junior club’s contributions, such as creating clothing for the National Farm School and supporting charitable causes across states. The senior chairwoman notes that “The fact that impresses me the most about our juniors is the spirit that predominates. This year has been filled with difficulties and disappointment, but despite them all, their ‘do or die’ spirit has won, They have accomplished many things and have arisen stronger and better than their adversities”.6
The NCJW’s influence extended beyond local endeavors. In 1936, the Waco Section hosted the Texas State Conference at the Roosevelt Hotel and Temple Rodef Sholom. This event underscored the group’s significant role within the broader state and national NCJW network and illustrated their ability to host and organize major events.
By the early 1950s, the NCJW in Waco had grown substantially. The 1951-1952 calendar, shows a membership of 154, reflecting the group’s expanding influence. This period also marked their relocation to the Bosque Boulevard house, a move that symbolized their continued growth and commitment to the community.
In 1963, the Waco Section celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of dedicated service to the community. The 50th anniversary program provides a detailed account of the organization’s achievements and highlights its core ideals of religious, educational, and social service. Notable accomplishments included support for the Maternal Health Center, the Waco Heart Clinic, and initiatives such as dairy inspections and the creation of a soup kitchen at Bell Hill Elementary, which later evolved into school cafeterias across Waco.
Despite its significant impact, the Waco Section of the NCJW disbanded in 1966. This trend of dissolution among women’s organizations in Waco during the 1970s and 1980s reflects broader social changes and challenges faced by such groups. The NCJW’s legacy, however, endures through the historical records and contributions it left behind.
In Belva Harlow’s 1898 to 1998, one hundred years : Waco Federation of Women’s Clubs , Ima Joy Gandler in the entry on the NCJW notes that that “ The National Council of Jewish Women worked through a program of research, education, advocacy, and community service to improve the quality of life for women, children, and families and strives to ensure individual rights and freedoms for all…In its 53 years, it provided outstanding contributions to Waco.”7
In conclusion, the NCJW’s legacy in Waco is a testament to the enduring impact of dedicated community service. From their early days in 1912 to their influential role in the 1936 state conference and beyond, the NCJW’s history is a rich tapestry of commitment and contribution. The preserved documents and materials not only celebrate their achievements but also ensure that their story continues to inspire future generations.
Cover of program from 50th anniversary program for NCJW, 1963
Cover of conference program for 14th conference of the Texas State NCJW
Sources Cited
Harlow, Belva. 1898 to 1998, one hundred years: Waco Federation of Women’s Clubs. 1998
Ima Joy Chodorow Gandler Texas Jewish collection, Accession #855, Box 28, Folder 7, The Texas Collection, Baylor University
Ima Joy Chodorow Gandler Texas Jewish collection, Accession #855, Box 28, Folder 8, The Texas Collection, Baylor University