By 1904, it numbered more than 500 women engaged in public pursuits, among them many of the representative actresses of England and the U.S.[3] The aims of the league were to bring together women engaged in dramatic, musical, literary, artistic, and scientific pursuits for mutual help and encouragement, to offer pecuniary assistance when in need, to provide class instruction in literature, art, language, music, and other studies at lowest possible rates, and to assist members to obtain outfits necessary to securing employment.

At the conclusion of the fair, it was the general impression that the good fellowship and sympathy of these women workers might accomplish great and beneficial results if they could be banded together permanently.

To reach the opinions of her associates, Mrs. A. M. Palmer sent letters to many of the committee, and in answer to these, some 21 women attended an informal gathering held at her house.

The idea of an organization was favored and it was decided to hold a regular meeting at 29 West Thirtieth Street, Manhattan.

Mrs. Sydney Rosenfeld was selected as chairman on by-laws, and owing to her able work and good judgment this task was soon completed.

They proved that social and intellectual intercourse broadened their views and enhanced respect for the diversified occupations represented in the P.W.L.

The actress, the doctor, the musician, the painter, the writer, and the lawyer mingled and took part in all affairs of the League and found it to their mutual advantage to do so.

The first Monday of each month was devoted to literature; the second to the transaction of business; the third to the drama; and the fourth to a social reception, at which some distinguished guests entertained.

[1] Classes were open to members at nominal rates, [3][2] and were organized in such branches of study as seemed most needed, and soon afterward, the house at 1509 Broadway was hired and furnished.

[1] One of its practical methods of obtaining funds was an annual bazaar in which each member was bound to contribute two salable articles.