Early Beginnings and the First Library in Broward County (1922)

The Davie Woman’s Club was founded in 1922, several years before the Town of Davie was formally incorporated. From its earliest days, the organization focused on strengthening the young farming community through education, civic involvement, and volunteer service.

One of the club’s most important contributions was establishing one of the first community lending libraries in western Broward County. At a time when books and educational resources were scarce in the rural Everglades settlement, members of the club collected donated books and created a small library so residents could borrow reading materials. This early library became a vital educational resource for local families, farmers, and schoolchildren.

The club’s commitment to literacy and learning helped lay the foundation for the public library services that later developed throughout Broward County.

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The First Club Building

In the early years, the club operated from a modest meeting place where community activities and the library collection were housed. The women of the club organized fundraisers, social gatherings, and volunteer projects to support their efforts and expand services for the growing community.

The building served multiple purposes, including:

• A meeting place for civic discussions

• A community gathering space

• A library where residents could borrow books

Through these efforts, the Davie Woman’s Club became one of the central cultural and educational institutions in the early Davie settlement.

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A New Clubhouse for a Growing Community (1947)

As Davie grew after World War II, the club recognized the need for a larger facility to continue serving the community. In 1947, members built a new clubhouse at 6551 Orange Drive, which remains the club’s home today.

The new building provided expanded space for meetings, events, and community programs. It was designed to serve not only the members of the club but also many local organizations that used the building for gatherings, cultural events, and civic activities.

Today, the 1947 clubhouse is recognized as an important historic structure and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2016, honoring its long-standing role in community life.

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A Legacy of Community Service

For more than a century, the Davie Woman’s Club has played a vital role in shaping the community. From establishing an early library to supporting education, civic programs, and charitable causes, the organization has remained dedicated to improving the quality of life in Davie.

The club continues to serve as a historic landmark and gathering place, carrying forward the legacy of the women who, beginning in 1922, worked to bring education, culture, and community spirit to Broward County.