Authors Club Records (Ms 240)

University of Utah Marriott Library, Manuscripts Division

The Authors Club Records (1893-1979) contains minute books from 1899 to 1970 that also contain some attendance rolls and the treasurer's itemized report of expenditures; annual histories from 1893 to 1979 that briefly state the highlights of the organization's activities for that year; and news clippings. Also included are attendance roles, record books, club yearbooks, and other documents. The Authors Club was organized in Salt Lake City in the autumn of 1893, with Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon as its first chairwoman. The official club history states that the "object was to form a club for the study of the works of the best authors." The twelve charter members were all from prominent Salt Lake City families, a tradition that continued. Originally, the club met weekly in the Lion House until 1963, after which it met in the Salt Lake Public Library. The club's activities include the review of various authors' works, as well as in-depth study of an individual author, subject, or country over several months or years. Guest speakers discussed literature, music, or art. An indexed register is available.