Wilfandel Club facts for kids
The Wilfandel Club is a very important group of African-American women in Los Angeles. It is the oldest club of its kind there! The club started in 1945. Its main goals were to help the community, support good causes, and share knowledge. They have their own special building, help students with scholarships, and meet every month. At these meetings, they often have interesting people come to speak.
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How the Club Started
The Wilfandel Club was created in 1945. It was started by Black women who were very active in their community. One of these women was Della Mae Givens. Her husband, Paul Williams, was a famous architect.
The Wilfandel Club House
The Wilfandel Club has its own special building. It is called the Wilfandel House. You can find it at 3425 West Adams Blvd in Los Angeles. This area is known as Arlington Heights. People say the house was built in 1922. It was supposedly built by a silent film star named Ramon Novarro for his brother.
A Place for Everyone
After the Wilfandel Club members bought the building, it became a popular spot. It was used for many events. For example, they held farewell parties for young African-American men. These men were leaving to fight in America's wars. The club also hosted parties for young people going off to college.
In the 1950s, the Wilfandel Club House was special. It was one of the few public places in Los Angeles where people of all races could meet together. This was a time when many places were still separated by race.
The Club House Today
The club house is still used today. Members of the Wilfandel Club use it for their meetings. It is also a popular place for weddings and other events. The building has a full kitchen, which is very helpful for these gatherings.
Helping the Community
The Wilfandel Club members have done a lot of good. They have raised thousands of dollars for important causes. These include the American Cancer Society and the Exceptional Children’s Foundation. They also support the Foundation for the Junior Blind. The club has also helped the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
Because of their great work, the club received an award. It was the Community Service Award. The California State Attorney General gave them this special award. Today, more than 60 African-American women are members of the Wilfandel Club.
Famous Members
Bessie Bruington Burke was a member of the Wilfandel Club. She earned her teaching license in 1911. Soon after, she became the first Black teacher in the Los Angeles City School District.
