Q. Do you have any information about the organization named North Carolina Sorosis, mentioned on the historic marker at the corner of Cardinal Drive and Eastwood Road? Where exactly was the original building located, etc.?
A. “We have a long and proud history as the first Federated Woman’s Club in North Carolina and were chartered in 1896,” said NC Sorosis member Carolyn Wells. “We have a painting of the original clubhouse, along with portraits of founding members dating back to 1895.”
Wells said the organization’s original clubhouse was located at 116 North Third Street and was purchased in 1914 for $8,750.
“It was sold to Carolina Power & Light in 1967 for $47,500,” said Wells. “It was torn down and now houses offices for the city of Wilmington. The club built a new clubhouse (our current location) at 20 S. Cardinal Drive in 1968.”
Wells added a historical tidbit, “One interesting fact I do know is that when it was torn down, the columns on the front of the building were recycled and were used on the front of a large brick colonial-style house that is on Forest Hills Drive, near St. John’s Episcopal Church.”
According to the Sorosis Web site (www.ncsorosis.org), “North Carolina Sorosis (NCS) is a community service club that is committed to promoting volunteerism, improving our community, and fostering new friendships. North Carolina Sorosis is proud of its many contributions to our community and is dedicated to community improvement through volunteer service.
“Our Mission is to address the diverse needs of our communities by promoting education, preserving natural resources, encouraging healthy lifestyles, working on behalf of the elderly and people with disabilities, advocating for issues of concern to women, children, and families, and supporting participation in the arts.”
The organization recently held its Antique Show and Sale fundraiser.
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Date posted: February 5, 2013
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