The Bloomington-Normal Garden Club was formed in 1931, originally part of the Art Association. Its purpose was to enable members to share their interests in gardening and nature preservation with others. The club met on the first Tuesday of every month except August; held special dinner meetings in December and June; plus held a summer picnic every July. The Garden Club’s membership doubled from 100 to about 200 members during the war years of 1943 to 1945. As of 1981, the club’s original annual dues of $2 had remained the same.
At meetings a speaker gave a presentation, with the topics ranging from “Flower Arrangements” to “Insect and Fungus Control” to “Scenic Arizona.” Yearly elections were held for the offices of president, first vice president, second vice president, recording secretary, corresponding secretary, and treasurer. Committees were in charge of membership, programs, hospitality, and all functions/projects. The club also administered a Junior Garden Club and Junior Garden Show for elementary and junior high school students.
Materials include the club’s history and by-laws; minutes from April 4, 1944 to May 3, 1960; newspaper clippings and obituaries of past presidents. Postcard correspondence of monthly meetings as well as letters from various people and organizations are also included in the collection.