A Legacy of Service: The Woman's Club of Ouray County
Editor’s Note: Huge shout out to Heather Greisz for sitting down and discussing all the wonderful things the Woman’s Club of Ouray County do for the folks that call this place home. This article was written from that conversation. -Markus
Tucked into the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Ouray County has long been defined by resilience, community, and an unwavering spirit of service. For more than 125 years, the Woman’s Club of Ouray County has embodied these qualities, shaping the county’s cultural and civic landscape in ways that continue to leave a lasting impact.
125 Years of Commitment
Founded on March 18, 1897, by 25 forward-thinking women, the club’s mission was clear from the start: self-improvement and community service. Unlike many social clubs of the era, the Women’s Club was not simply about gathering for tea; these women rolled up their sleeves and set about making tangible changes in their town. Their first major endeavor? Establishing Ouray’s very first library, a project that not only brought books to the community but also introduced traveling lending libraries to neighboring towns.
The legacy of literacy remains at the heart of the club today, with members still engaged in supporting the Ouray Public Library. The organization has championed the expansion of library resources and continues to advocate for education as a cornerstone of community well-being.
Transforming the Community
Beyond literacy, the Woman’s Club of Ouray County has been instrumental in preserving and maintaining the county’s historic spaces. One of its earliest initiatives focused on Cedar Hill Cemetery, where club members organized cleanup efforts and raised funds for maintenance. What started as a grassroots movement evolved into a decades-long commitment to ensuring that the town’s resting place for generations past was treated with care and reverence.
The club has also played a key role in beautifying the town. As early as 1965, it was responsible for the first floral plantings along Main Street, setting a precedent for maintaining the charm that makes Ouray a destination unlike any other. The organization also turned neglected spaces into green havens, such as the Woman’s Club Mini Park at 4th Street and 5th Avenue—another lasting contribution to the town’s landscape.
Philanthropy in Action
If there is one constant in the Women’s Club’s history, it is its ability to adapt and meet the needs of the times. Today, the club’s philanthropic arm is stronger than ever. Through its grant program, the organization provides $500 grants to local nonprofits, ensuring that funds stay within the community to support initiatives benefiting Ouray County residents. With nearly $10,000 raised annually through events such as bake sales, chili cook-offs, and the beloved rummage sale at the Ouray Community Center, the club has maintained a steady stream of funding to give back to those who need it most.
A Modern Evolution: After Five
While the club’s membership has traditionally been composed of retired women, recent years have seen a concerted effort to engage a younger demographic. The introduction of Woman’s Club After Five, a monthly evening gathering, has welcomed a new wave of members—many of whom are business owners, professionals, and working mothers. By offering an alternative to the traditional daytime meetings, the club has created an inclusive space where the next generation of Ouray women can connect, exchange ideas, and carry forward the club’s mission of service.
The Power of Collective Action
What makes the Woman’s Club of Ouray County so enduring is not just its history, but its willingness to evolve. In addition to funding grants and fostering new membership, the club has taken on civic responsibilities such as hosting candidate forums for local elections, ensuring that Ouray County remains engaged and informed. Their commitment to making the community better isn’t just talk—it’s action, backed by more than a century of results.
Looking ahead, the club shows no signs of slowing down. With major events on the horizon, including the annual rummage sale in June and the continued expansion of community partnerships, its impact will only continue to grow.
For those who call Ouray County home, the Woman’s Club is more than just an organization—it’s a testament to what can be achieved when people come together in service of something greater than themselves. As the club moves forward into the next chapter of its long and storied history, one thing remains certain: Ouray County is a better place because of it.