Celebrating the 85th anniversary of the national federation of republican women!
Club History
June 4, 1919 and August 18,1920
The 19th Amendment was passed by both chambers of Congress on June 4th, 1919 and the next year, following approval by three-fourths of state legislatures, the amendment was ratified into the Constitution. The opening of the amendment reads:
"The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
Just 22 days after the 19th Amendment was ratified, the Republican Women's Club of Frederick County was formed. It was the FIRST women's club in the country and one step ahead of the creation of the Maryland Federation of Republican Women (MFRW)
1964 the sprwc is chartered
Forty four years after women were granted the right to vote, a handful of women gathered at the home of Sue Liddy in Round Bay. Those present included Marjorie Holt, Charlotte Eldridge, Betty Eby, Sue Liddy, and Genie Sack.
Their goal was to form a Republican Women's club in the area. The club's efforts would shape the political landscape and springboard many women into elected positions.
1972 Marjorie holt elected to congress
After serving locally as Supervisor of Elections (1964), and Clerk of the Circuit Court (1966), Marjorie Holt was elected to congress, holding the position until 1987. She was the first Republican woman in Maryland to be elected to Congress. She left to continue her law practice and be with her family.
Although Marjorie Holt was a founding member of the SPRWC, she never served as president or any elected position on the Board. She did however serve as a board member, providing guidance and direction for the Club and mentoring young women interested in pursuing a political office. She passed away in January 2018 at the age of 97, surrounded by her family.
Club Presidents
SPRWC PRESIDENTS THRU THE YEARS
Amy Leahy (2020-2023)
Christine Ronk (2018-2019)
Club Presidents
Meghan Lawson (2016-2017)
Liz League (2014-2015)
Amy Leahy (2010-2013)
Anne Rutherford (2008-2009)
Faith Loudon (2004-2007)
Maria Mercado (2002-2003)
Jean Rude
Flonell Wentz (2000-2001)
Deceased Jan 2021
Janet Bauer (1998-1999)
Deceased 2004
Marian Hunt (1996-1997)
Deceased 2006
Rita Brandon (1992-1995)
Deceased 2010
Mary Rohe (1988-1991)
Deceased September 2023
Jean Rude (1986-1987)
Deceased October 2021
Lee Sexton (1984-1985)
Deceased December 2021
(Photo shown at left)
Jo Anne Pittaway (1980-1983)
Deceased 2015
Ruthanne Gary (1978-1979)
Deceased 2016
Marian Kirkley (1974-1977)
Deceased 2013
Moya Mulqueen (1972-1973)
Deceased 1981
Joan Alspaw (1970-1971)
Deceased 2012
Virginia Love (1968-1969)
Deceased 2003
Jean (Genie) Sack (1966-1967)
Betty Eby (1964-1965)
Deceased 2018
BECOME A MEMBER!
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