Houston, Harris County
In the early 20th century, many Black women became progressive leaders, investing themselves in social activities through clubs. On September 8, 1902, twelve ladies of Houston’s elite Black society founded the Married Ladies Social, Art and Charity Club to improve the social welfare of its members and the community. The charter members included Nannie Murray, the club’s first president; Mrs. E.A. Hogan; Lilla Love, wife of Houston’s first African-American newspaper publisher, Charles N. Love; Melissa A. Price; Venora Bell; Chloe Woods; Effie Collins; Lula Anderson; Jennie Clarke; Eliza Scott; Luella Walker; and Mary Crawford. The club originally met twice a month in members’ homes. Membership was limited to 52 married women who were required to live up to the club’s moral, social and spiritual ideals. Early activities included decorating floats for Juneteenth parades and aiding victims of the devastating Fifth Ward fire of 1912. Through the years, the club has made donations, provided goods for the needy, aided battered women and operated a scholarship program. Members also offered lodging for distinguished Black visitors who were unable to stay in hotels due to Jim Crow laws. The club began to meet at their first clubhouse (1902 Berry Avenue) in 1953. In 1967, members purchased a new clubhouse at 1814 Southmore Boulevard. Noted members have included civic leader and social justice advocate Jennie Covington and civil rights activist Christia Adair. Today, the Married Ladies Social, Art and Charity Club of America, Inc. continues its mission of change through charitable, educational and social services to the community. (2010)