The Young at Heart 19th Century Club: Committed to Learning & Discovery

By Linda Philipp

Imagine you are a woman living in Stockton in the late 1800s. You’re curious, intelligent and have a desire to learn about the world around you. Unfortunately, at that time, the woman’s role in society did not foster your aspirations. Most women did not attend college, work outside the home or pursue professional careers. They were traditionally expected to marry, have children, support their husbands’ careers and raise a family.

But, as the saying goes, never underestimate a woman. Or, in the case of the 19th Century Club, ten women. For it was ten like-minded women who felt the need to nurture their minds and expand their horizons who formed the study club on July 16, 1895. For 130 years, the club has held steadfast to its original purpose: to offer opportunities for continuous learning, intellectual growth and social connection.

Today, the club has 28 members. They meet monthly from September to May in members’ homes; the members serve as voluntary hostesses providing coffee, tea, cookies and other refreshments. Active members are required to serve as a meeting program coordinator approximately once every two years. Topics are selected a year in advance. The program coordinator has the option of providing information on the given topic herself by preparing a research paper that she then presents or by inviting a local expert to address the group.

The two longest-participating members are currently Fran Meredith, who joined in 1977, and Joan Heffernan, 1988. They are followed by Nancy Spiekerman, 1993, and Judi Hachman, 1999. They are considered honorary and associate members respectively, which means they no longer are required to present research papers or coordinate programs. True to the spirit of the founders, however, three of the four still serve as voluntary meeting hostesses.

A majority of the topics addressed when the club was formed centered around world geography and governments. Also in the early days, the club played a role in civic improvement, particularly as it related to the Hazelton Library. In 1917, the members voted to contribute $25 from their treasury to the Ambulance Fund that was being raised by Stockton women to buy, equip and maintain an ambulance for one year. The Red Cross, Save the Redwoods League and Community Chest were also recipients of club support throughout the years.

Rosilyn (Roz) Young, who has been a member since 2013, explained her motivation for membership by noting, “I joined 19th Century because my mother was a member and I enjoyed hearing her talks as she practiced with me. I love studying a topic in depth, writing a paper and presenting it to the group in a way that piques their interest.” Current club President Diane Malcoun added, “What a fun way to spend an afternoon and keep learning. The 19th Century Club encompasses topics for everyone, coupled with friendship and cookies!”

Former club president Carla Donaldson summed it up beautifully as well. “Belonging to the 19th Century Club has given our members a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded women who share a passion for learning, discovery and community engagement. The club fosters friendships, encourages thought-provoking discussions and provides a welcoming space to explore history, culture and new ideas.”

Science has shown that learning fuels creativity and innovation and sparks social engagement; we often connect with others because we want to learn from them and with them. People with strong social connections, who continue to learn, tend to be happier and live longer. Ultimately, continuous learning supports the greater good.
Since 1895, the 19th Century Club has been doing just that. It will continue to provide local women the opportunity to improve their own intellectual growth and the greater good for generations to come.

Credit for club historical information is given to Meredith McCormack, Carla Donaldson, Gretchen Salvetti and Marcia Gray Doty.