Aiken, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The Aiken Woman’s Club held a special event to celebrate its 50th anniversary at Houndslake Country Club. The gathering brought together past and present members to commemorate decades of community service. Attendees included notable figures who expressed gratitude for the club’s impact on Aiken. The mayor presented a proclamation declaring September 18 as ‘Aiken Woman’s Club Day’, recognizing the club’s contribution over the years. The celebration highlighted various community initiatives and showcased a strong sense of sisterhood and philanthropy.
Aiken
The Aiken Woman’s Club celebrated its 50th anniversary on September 18, 2025, at Houndslake Country Club. The milestone gathering attracted both past and present members, creating a memorable event celebrating decades of community service and philanthropy.
Among attendees were notable figures such as Darlene Rittel, Maxine Falb, Gail Ebner, and Patty Craft, who were seen with club photo albums that highlighted significant moments from the past 50 years. Other attendees included Marcia Torre and B.J. Schrieier. Ann Fornwald, a past president of the club, assisted in delivering goodies which added celebratory flair to the occasion.
During the event, Mayor Pro Tempore Ed Girardeau presented a formal proclamation to the current club president, Rachel Pirkle. The proclamation officially named September 18 as “Aiken Woman’s Club Day” in the city, recognizing the club’s contributions to the community over the last five decades.
Suzanne Carswell, who serves as the president of South Carolina’s chapter of General Federated Women’s Clubs, delivered a tribute speech highlighting the importance of women’s clubs in fostering community engagement and service. The festivities were documented by historian and photographer Allen Riddick, who captured cherished moments of members and friends throughout the event.
Among the attendees was Sue Hayes, a charter member of the Aiken Woman’s Club, along with other charter members recognized in the proclamation, including Jane Vaughters, Mary Bess Epps, Olivia Lawhon, Silvia Johnson, Meg Jones, Ann Williams, Ann Sanderson, Irmgard Daiber, Mary Ann Thompson, Evelyn Aughtman, Ann Shultz, Margaret Lee, Joan Marine, Pat Robinette, and Ginnie Samsel.
The proclamation emphasized various initiatives led by the Aiken Woman’s Club, including the following:
- Celebration of Character, which is currently in its 25th year.
- Birthday parties organized at local community homes for mental health.
- Support for Habitat for Humanity’s “Women Build” programs.
- Financial donations to organizations such as Gaston Livery Stable, Aiken County Public Library, Audubon Society, Aiken County Historical Museum, and Aiken Land Conservancy.
The event was marked by a strong sense of sisterhood, philanthropy, and community service, which impressed both members and guests. It served not only as a celebration of the club’s past achievements but also as a reminder of its ongoing commitment to the Aiken community.
FAQ
What did the Aiken Woman’s Club celebrate on September 18, 2025?
The Aiken Woman’s Club celebrated its 50th anniversary on September 18, 2025, at Houndslake Country Club.
Who were some notable attendees at the anniversary celebration?
Notable attendees included Darlene Rittel, Maxine Falb, Gail Ebner, and Patty Craft, as well as Marcia Torre and B.J. Schrieier.
What proclamation did the Mayor Pro Tempore present at the event?
Mayor Pro Tempore Ed Girardeau presented a proclamation that declared September 18 as “Aiken Woman’s Club Day” in the city.
What initiatives were highlighted in the proclamation?
The proclamation highlighted several initiatives, including the Celebration of Character, birthday parties in local community homes for mental health, support for Habitat for Humanity’s “Women Build” programs, and financial donations to various organizations.
Key Features of the Aiken Woman’s Club Celebration
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | September 18, 2025 |
| Location | Houndslake Country Club |
| Significance | 50th Anniversary Celebration |
| Proclamation | Declared as “Aiken Woman’s Club Day” |
| Notable Attendees | Darlene Rittel, Maxine Falb, Gail Ebner, Patty Craft, Marcia Torre, B.J. Schrieier |
| Charter Members Recognized | Jane Vaughters, Mary Bess Epps, Olivia Lawhon, Silvia Johnson, Meg Jones, Ann Williams, Ann Sanderson, Irmgard Daiber, Mary Ann Thompson, Evelyn Aughtman, Ann Shultz, Margaret Lee, Joan Marine, Pat Robinette, Ginnie Samsel |
| Highlighted Initiatives | Celebration of Character, Community Birthday Parties, Habitat for Humanity Support, Financial Donations |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken Woman’s Club 50th Anniversary
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Aiken Woman’s Club 50 Years Celebration Photos
- Google Search: Aiken Woman’s Club anniversary
- Augusta Press: Aiken Technical College Awards Night
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- Shellhouse Rivers Funeral Home: Cheryl Guynn Obituary
- Google News: Aiken community service
- WRDW: Aiken Police Search for Missing Woman
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