Once considered remote, the corner of Mill Avenue and 13th Street in Tempe, near the iconic Gammage Auditorium, was the original location of the historic Tempe Woman’s Club. Built nearly 90 years ago, this spot seemed too far from town at the time, raising eyebrows among locals.
Luanne Davis, the current president of the club established in 1912, reflects on its origins. “And I think at that time it was called the Mother’s Club. In 1913, they joined an international organization called the General Federation of Women’s Clubs,” Davis explained.
Tempe Woman’s Club
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Handout
The club, known for its dedication to community service, constructed its adobe headquarters in 1936. “It’s one of a few adobe buildings left in Tempe, and I suppose the Valley for that matter,” noted Davis.
Tempe Woman’s Club
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Handout
In 2017, the club faced challenges due to mismanagement, temporarily losing its building. By 2024, a court order returned the premises to the club, and as Davis mentioned, “Actually [we] got the keys in 2025.”
Efforts to restore and modernize the facility have been ongoing, with improvements like fresh paint and a new HVAC system. Plans are underway to rent out the building for events to generate income for its upkeep.
Furthermore, the club has broadened its membership criteria. “Men can join. Absolutely. We have about six [or] seven men who are members of the club,” Davis said, highlighting that Tempe’s Mayor Corey Wood is among them.
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