The constitution declared that the object of the association was to advance and encourage women in literary work, and to secure the benefits arising from organized effort.
[3] In the summer of 1881, three correspondents of Washington, D.C. frequently met in council to discuss plans for the organization of a press club.
So earnest were their convictions, that they called a meeting of the writers of the city, which, by the courtesy of Jane H. Spofford, was held in the parlors of the Riggs House, July 10, 1882.
From this small and apparently insignificant beginning there evolved a chartered organization known as the Woman's National Press Association.
[4] The association was organized in 1882, through the efforts of Martha D. Lincoln ("Bessie Beech"), Emily Thornton Charles, Rose Braendle, and Nettie Sanford Chapin.
Through the efforts of Lockwood, who was one of the lady managers of the World's Columbian Expositionn, the exhibit of the Woman's National Press Association won a medal, and each contributor a diploma.
[5] The association sustained for years a Publication Bureau, and issued many works of interest, notably in the Potomac series.
issued the call for the formation of a federated organization in the District of Columbia, and the first meeting was held in its rooms and the officers chosen from its members.
This fund paid for the printing of the Year Book, stationery, cards of invitation, postage and other incidentals, besides rent for headquarters when necessary.
[1] The use of parlors for business and public gatherings, which were held semi-monthly, was donated by the host of the Riggs House, Mr.