Lawrenceburg Review Club celebrates 130th anniversary

(LAWRENCEBURG, Ind.) – The Lawrenceburg Review Club is celebrating 130 years of existence! 

The group was formed in 1896 by a group of women who wanted to organize a book club.

The club’s purpose was to read books on diverse subjects, enrich themselves and their families, and provide intellectual and social advancement to the entire community.

Thus began 130 years of local women meeting to read, review, and discuss books along with the historical events of the day. 

In 1908, Ada Fitch initiated a preliminary subscription to establish a public library in Lawrenceburg. In 1910, it became a reality, and in 1912, a new building was constructed at its current location. 

Fitch served as the first librarian and helped obtain an Andrew Carnegie Gift of $11,000. 

During the 1915 dedication of the library, it was noted how the Lawrenceburg Public Library was made possible by the work of the Review Club and the generous subscriptions of citizens and former residents. 

Last month, the anniversary celebration was held where Mayor Kelly Mollaun named May 2 as Review Club Day in Lawrenceburg. 

“Governor Miike Braun also sent a letter, read to the group by Mrs. Beverly Meyer, thanking us for our dedication to the community and honoring us for the legacy the Review Club has created,” the Review Club stated.

A special table displayed the names of the deceased members, with an enlarged picture of the members from the 100th Anniversary.

Susan Troutt and Susan Ray presented an engaging program entitled “The Evolution of the American Book Club.”

The club is also thanking Dan McCabe of the Liberty Theater who hosted the event as well as D and G Catering for the boxed lunches, and Emerson’s Bakery in Florence for the cake they provided. 

The 130-year Anniversary committee was comprised of Beverly Meyer, Susan Ray and Susan Troutt.