Women's Civic League
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The Women's Civic League is an organization founded in 1911 in Baltimore, Maryland to promote the welfare of the citizens of Maryland, generally, and Baltimore, specifically.[1] Throughout the course of the twentieth century, the League has been involved in grassroots projects that encourage the citizens of Baltimore to organize to rejuvenate their city from the neighborhoods up to the government as well as from the government down. This group spread awareness about issues within the city and encouraged attendance at committee fundraisers through the publication of pamphlets, flyers, and, especially, through updates in the Baltimore Afro-American newspaper.
One of the most recognized events that the Women's Civic League is known for in Baltimore is the annual Flower Mart held in Mt. Vernon Place in the city's cultural and historical district. The Flower Mart was first held the same year that the League was formed, but it took place before the official founding.[2] Originally, the Home and Garden Committee was responsible for holding the event, which provided fund-raising as well as cultural value. The Flower Mart became under the control of the League in 1912 when the Home and Garden Committee joined with the newly formed Women's Civic League.[2] This event has been held yearly since its founding with the exception of two years during World War I.[2] It remains today a May tradition in Baltimore, but has expanded to include booths from various committees and organizations around the city.[citation needed]