Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 5 July 1947-1975 (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
1 bundle
Context area
Name of creator
Administrative history
The name Soroptimist was coined from the Latin soror meaning sister, and optima meaning best. Soroptimist is perhaps best interpreted as 'the best for women'. Currently there are around 3,000 clubs across the world.
The first British club was founded in 1921, the same year as the society was inaugurated in the United States. It's purpose was 'to encourage high ethical standards in business and professions; to increase the efficiency of each member by the exchange of ideas and business methods; to stimulate the desire of each member to be of service to her fellows; and to quicken the interest of each member in the public welfare and to co-operate with others in civic, social, and industrial development.'
It is unclear when after 1921 the York club was established, however it had been formed by 1934.
In 1934 the British and European clubs separated from the United States Federation. During the 1930s, many service projects were undertaken including: vocational training for women and children, housing for the disadvantaged, assistance for the sick and disabled, concern for the local area, and caring for refugees.
The governing body of Soroptimist International was founded in 1952.
Repository
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Includes annual dinner menus, associated papers and handwritten copies of speeches given, as well as papers regarding Linton Lodge and a history of the Soroptimist Club of Bingley.
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
Open
Material is available subject to the usual terms and conditions of access to Archives and Local History collections.
Conditions governing reproduction
Images are supplied for private research only at the Archivist's discretion. Please note that material may be unsuitable for copying on conservation grounds. Researchers who wish to publish material must seek copyright permission from the copyright owner.
Language of material
- English