What Is 20th Century Club

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 20th Century Club is a women's organization founded in 1901 in Oakland, California, dedicated to civic improvement, education, and cultural enrichment. It began as a literary society and evolved into a prominent force in local philanthropy and community leadership.

Key Facts

Founded in 1901 by a group of 20 women in Oakland, California
Originally established as a literary and self-improvement club for women
Purchased its permanent clubhouse in 1914 at 1100 Franklin Street
Played a key role in founding the Oakland Public Library and supporting public education
Continues to operate today as a nonprofit promoting civic engagement and women's leadership

Overview

The 20th Century Club is a historic women's civic organization based in Oakland, California. Founded in 1901, it emerged during a period of growing female activism and intellectual engagement in American urban centers.

Initially formed as a forum for women's self-education and cultural advancement, the club quickly expanded its mission to include community service and public advocacy. Over more than a century, it has remained a steadfast institution in the Bay Area’s social and philanthropic landscape.

Established in 1901 by a founding group of 20 women committed to intellectual growth and civic responsibility through monthly study groups and lectures.
The club’s name reflects its progressive vision, symbolizing a forward-looking commitment to modern ideals of education, equality, and social reform at the dawn of the 20th century.
In 1914, the organization purchased a permanent clubhouse at 1100 Franklin Street, designed by architect Julia Morgan, who later gained fame for Hearst Castle.
Early initiatives included advocating for public kindergarten programs and supporting the creation of the Oakland Public Library system in the 1920s.
Throughout the 20th century, the club awarded scholarships to local students, funded community health programs, and hosted public forums on education and the arts.

How It Works

The 20th Century Club operates as a membership-based nonprofit with a structured program of education, fundraising, and community outreach. Its model blends historical tradition with contemporary civic engagement.

Membership Structure: Open to women over 18, members pay annual dues and participate in committees focused on philanthropy, education, and cultural events. Dues fund scholarships and community grants.
Monthly Meetings: Hosted from September to May, these include guest speakers on topics such as public policy, science, and the arts, continuing the club’s original literary mission.
Scholarship Program: Since 1935, the club has awarded over $1.2 million in college scholarships to Oakland-area high school graduates, prioritizing first-generation and low-income students.
Community Grants: The club allocates funds annually to local nonprofits, with past recipients including La Clinica de la Raza and the East Bay Community Foundation.
Clubhouse Use: The historic Julia Morgan building is rented for weddings, conferences, and cultural events, generating revenue while preserving architectural heritage.
Leadership Development: Younger members are mentored through leadership roles in committees, ensuring intergenerational continuity and active civic participation.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 20th Century Club with similar women's organizations in California during the early 20th century.

Organization	Founded	Location	Primary Focus	Notable Achievement
20th Century Club	1901	Oakland	Education, civic reform, scholarships	Founded in 1901; awarded $1.2M+ in scholarships
California Club	1895	San Diego	Social and cultural enrichment	One of the oldest women's clubs in Southern California
Women’s City Club of San Francisco	1913	San Francisco	Urban reform, public health	Instrumental in creating municipal playgrounds
Friday Morning Club	1891	Los Angeles	Literary and civic engagement	Helped establish the Los Angeles Public Library
YWCA of Greater Los Angeles	1897	Los Angeles	Women’s housing and job training	Served over 10,000 women annually by 1950

The 20th Century Club stands out for its sustained commitment to education and its preservation of a Julia Morgan-designed building. While many early women’s clubs have disbanded or merged, it remains active, adapting its mission to modern challenges while honoring its founding principles.

Why It Matters

The 20th Century Club exemplifies how women's organizations shaped American civic life in the 20th century, particularly in advancing education and public welfare. Its longevity and continued relevance underscore the lasting impact of grassroots advocacy.

Pioneered women’s leadership in a time when women had limited political power, setting a precedent for female engagement in public affairs.
Contributed to educational equity by funding scholarships for underrepresented students in the Oakland Unified School District.
Preserved a Julia Morgan-designed landmark, contributing to Oakland’s architectural heritage and cultural tourism.
Demonstrated the long-term value of voluntary associations in strengthening democratic participation and community resilience.
Provided a model for intergenerational civic engagement, with current members mentoring younger women in leadership and philanthropy.
Continues to advocate for gender equity and public education, aligning historical mission with 21st-century social justice goals.

As one of the oldest continuously operating women’s clubs in California, the 20th Century Club remains a testament to the enduring power of organized women in shaping community progress.