New Century Club

In 1893 a group of Newark women established a literary and social organization known as the Tuesday Club. Later renamed the New Century Club, the organization became part of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. Committed to matters of civic responsibility, the Club’s adoption of the motto “Not for ourselves alone” reflected its deep interest in social service. Throughout its history the New Century Club of Newark has played a key role in advancing education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and other issues affecting quality of life. Members were active in promoting, financing, and expanding the services of the Newark Library, and they lobbied vigorously for the establishment of the Women’s College of the University of Delaware. This site was obtained in 1916 and the present Club House was completed in 1917. Since then the building has been used for a variety of purposes. Providing recreation space for military personnel during World Wars I and II, it has also served as a Community Center for local youth, and as an activity center for such organizations as the Red Cross and Blood Bank of Delaware. Since its founding, the New Century Club of Newark has continued to make a vital contribution to the community that it serves.