Community service groups have helped shape Redmond, but none has been around as long as the Nokomis Club — founded by six women in 1909 to bring culture to what was then a Wild West Redmond. Set up as a literary club, the organization eventually went on to found Redmond’s first library. Alexa Munoz, current club president, will present the Nokomis story at the Redmond Historical Society’s Saturday Speaker Series program at 10:30 a.m. on May 9 at the Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center, 16600 N.E. 80th St.

“The history of the Nokomis Club is an example of the role that women played in the community during the first half of the last century,” says Munoz. “It’s a great topic for Mother’s Day weekend.”

Its charter was clear: “only those of good moral character” were allowed in and “two negatives” meant expulsion. Poetry readings and clothing drives for orphans and homeless were among the early activities of the all-women’s club.

After several fundraising efforts, the Nokomis voted in 1927 to organize a public library in Redmond.

The library opened on Oct. 29, 1927, loaning out 567 books in its first month. But the donated space soon became too small and according to Munoz “within five years, a permanent library was financed, organized, and administered by women who volunteered their talents and capabilities for the betterment of the community.” That wood-framed cottage, which later became the Redmond Chamber of Commerce, still stands but its future is uncertain. A developer has plans for an apartment building on the property. However, Nokomis Club is working to preserve the historic building on its original site.

The Saturday Speaker Series is a monthly program presented by the Redmond Historical Society on every second Saturday (with the exception of June, July, August and December).  Topics range from local, state and Pacific Northwest historical interest. There is a suggested $5 donation for non-members.

The Redmond Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that receives support from the City of Redmond, 4 Culture, Nintendo, the Bellevue Collection, and Happy Valley Grange as well as from other donors and members.