20th Century Women’s Club: a place for conversation, community, and yes, good snacks
Why the 20th Century Women’s Club of Manchester is Worth a Look and an invitation to an upcoming meet and greet dinner.
submitted by Maggie Hatcher, M.Ed., 20th Century Women’s Club of Manchester
In a world that moves fast and often feels a bit disconnected, there’s something quietly remarkable happening right here in Manchester. It involves women, a welcoming table, plenty of laughter and, not insignificantly, some very good snacks.
The 20th Century Women’s Club of Manchester has been bringing women together for generations. While the name may sound like a nod to the past (and it is), the spirit of the club is very much alive in the present. This is not your grandmother’s club- ok maybe it is but if she’s there too, come join her and you’ll quickly see why she kept coming back.
At its heart, the club is about connection. Members gather regularly to share ideas, hear engaging speakers, support local causes, and enjoy each other’s company. Conversations range from thoughtful to lighthearted, often in the same breath. One moment you’re discussing community projects; the next, you’re laughing over a story that somehow involves a baking mishap or a grandchild’s latest adventure.
There’s something special about the mixing of generations, too. Newer members bring fresh perspectives, while long-time members carry a deep sense of history and continuity. And we're in need of newer members because the result of that mix is a group where everyone has something to offer and something to gain.
And yes, there are snacks. This is not a minor detail.
But beyond the camaraderie and refreshments, the club shares a meaningful tradition of shared unity and giving back to the community. Each meeting begins with the recitation of a poem written in 1904 by Mary Stewart, known as “A Collect for Women.” It’s a thoughtful reflection on kindness, perspective, and the power of women working together, values that still resonate strongly today.
Here is the poem, as it is shared at the start of every meeting:
A Collect for Women
by Mary Stewart
Keep us oh God from pettiness;
Let us be large in thought, in word, and deed.
Let us be done with fault-finding and leave off self-seeking.
May we put away all pretense and meet each other face to face,
without self pity and without prejudice.
May we never be hasty in judgment and always gracious.
Let us take time for all things and grow calm, serene, gentle.
Teach us to put into action our better impulses,
straightforward and unafraid.
Grant that we may realize it is the little things that create differences,
that in the big things of life we are at one.
And may we strive to touch and to know the great common human heart of us all.
And oh Lord God, let us not forget to be kind!
Written over a century ago, the poem still feels surprisingly current, perhaps because the need for kindness, openness, and community never goes out of style and is truly needed now more than ever.
If you’ve ever thought about getting more involved locally, meeting new people, or simply carving out time for meaningful conversation (with a side of cookies), the 20th Century Women’s Club might be just what you’re looking for.
If you're interested please send an email to maggie@pdthatmatters.com.
We are having our Spring Dinner at Salt Springs Brewery on May 12 from 4:30pm - 5:30pm, if you're interested in meeting the group and attending please email by May 6 to confirm your attendance. Each attendee pays for themselves.
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