The Erie Woman’s Club was formed in December 1897 by 18 women at the suggestion of the President of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs located in Pittsburgh in order to extend membership statewide. The following month–January 1898–the Erie Club joined the General Federation of Women’s Clubs and, in April, the PA Federation of Women’s Clubs. The object of the Erie Club was “to unite the influe
nce, sympathy and counsel of the women of Erie and to promote measures which all can endorse, whether these be legislative, educational, moral or social.”
Groundbreaking for the Woman’s Club took place on August 10, 1889. The building was a wedding gift from the couple’s parents to the newlyweds. Today, the house is used as an elegant location for private parties, be it a bridal shower, baby shower, or even a small wedding. The Buffalo architectural firm of Green and Wicks did the original plans for the house. The local building firm of Constable Brothers was awarded the contract to build the house. The total costs to build the house was $60,000; a monumental sum in those days. No detail was spared in the meticulous construction and preservation of the mansion:
The turret is of Queen Anne Victorian design. The foyer is laid with imported tile. A central hall leads to a billiard room that can be separated with sumptuous drapery. Original built-in cue holders can still be seen in the billiard room. Each room boasts a unique, magnificently carved fireplace. The dining room adjoins a butler’s pantry which in turn leads to the downstairs main kitchen via a back stairway. A dumbwaiter reminds us of times gone-by. The mantel in the dining room was hand-carved onsite in the workshops of Constable Brothers. Other rooms on the first floor include the library with built in bookcases, and the parlor. The library is finished in hazelwood with built in bookcases and the turret sits in one corner. The parlor is finished in white maple and the ceiling is finished in gold trimmings. Ascend the grand staircase and look out the carved Juliet balcony with a stunning leaded glass window as a backdrop. The Woman’s Club of Erie is available for private parties, such as bridal showers, baby showers, and even small weddings. Call 814- 452-3844 to book your party.
