Our History
Our Story Begins
On July 9, 1892 a few Santa Fe women formed a society named The Benevolent Association, which later became the Women’s Board of Trade & Library Association; their purpose was to make civic improvements and establish a library.
Guardian of the Plaza
"Guardian of the Plaza," in a self-appointed mission to prevent the ancient hub of the community from falling into decay and ruin. Members repaired the benches, fertilized the grass, filled the holes, built a picket fence and filled the horse troughs.
The Library Building
The Public Library and Reading Room with 400 books opened on January 15, 1896 in the Barracks Building at the northwest corner of the Plaza.
New Public Library
In March 1903 the Territorial Legislature gave the Board a piece of land on Washington Street where the Library building was begun in 1907 and by 1915 contained 3,500 books.
Remodeled by Spanish Pueblo Architect John Gaw Meem, the library reopened in 1933.
The Merger
In 1931 the Women’s Board of Trade merged with the Santa Fe Women’s Club which was organized in 1912. The objectives were to promote civic, educational, philanthropic and library work, to conduct a free public library and to maintain Fairview Cemetery in the City of Santa Fe.
Fairview Cemetery
Club maintenance of Fairview Cemetery began in 1899 and continued until 1978 when the Cemetery was donated to Santa Fe County.
The Clubhouse
The City of Santa Fe purchased the Library from The Women’s Club in 1962. At the time, the Club donated the Library book inventory, appraised at over $100,000.00 to the City. Money from the sale made it possible for the Club to purchase land at 1616 Old Pecos Trail. The Club House was completed and dedicated on February 19, 1964.
Santa Fe Living Treasure
In 2003 the Santa Fe Woman's Club was named “A Santa Fe Living Treasure” The Club was the first and only organization in the city to receive this wonderful honor. Members are proud to be in an organization that is committed to our community.
Photo, left to right: Lois Magrath, Board Member; Catherine Byers, Board Member & Past Co-president 2000-2002; Bette Reeder, President 2002-2004