1921 - 2015
The University of Michigan
Faculty Women’s Club
HAPPY 80TH ANNIVERSARY TO THE
FACULTY WOMEN’S CLUB
Historical Notes: Anniversaries in Song and Style
By Evelyn A. Port, FWC Historian
FWC Newsletter, Spring 2003
The first Faculty Women’s Club Anniversary Pageant took place at the Annual Spring Luncheon in 1932, ten years after the founding of our organization.
Entertainment was planned by three of the original eight sections Drama, Music and Art. The members collected authentic clothing, furniture and other items, which reflected the lifestyle from 1870 to 1930. Much was contributed by University families, still residing in Ann Arbor. It was an enormous endeavor and a wonderful occasion. The refreshment wine punch, however, was minus the wine. Prohibition, you know.
In 1947, we celebrated our 25th Anniversary. Over the years more interest sections had been added and each contributed their special talents to the Winter Follies Program “Stunt Days”. Members performed this song and dance review dressed in bloomers and black stockings, middy blouses and bows. As their theme the Decorating Section provided creative ideas with the motto of:
“Our Concern is with beauty, not of the skin,
but rather the home, especially within.”
Our 50th Anniversary year in 1971 was celebrated by three programs presented by the Play Reading Section, “The Lady is not for Burning” contrasted by “The Last of the Red Hot Lovers” and “Butterflies are Free.” Women had come a long way.
By 1996, Faculty Women had enjoyed 75 years of camaraderie and friendship. The members provided us once again with a fashion show in grand style to review the 75-year history of FWC.
Over the years we have taken to the stage in gold lame gowns, mini skirts, tuxedos and top hats. I am reminded of a comment made by Vivian Shapiro, wife of President Harold Shapiro, at our 1980 Spring Luncheon:
“Faculty Women are strong, intelligent, lively and possessed of good humor.”
After reviewing anniversary events since 1921, I would add:
“talented, gracious and very creative.”
Happy 80th Birthday FWC
