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By Ellen Brabo, For Washington Daily News

Nestled in the heart of Washington, North Carolina, the Addisco Book Club has been an intellectual and social cornerstone since its founding in 1897. The club’s guiding motto, “Not a day without something acquired,” encapsulates its commitment to lifelong learning. Toddy Warren, a native of Bethel and a member from the 1950s, possesses an intimate familiarity with the club’s rich history and evolution.

Upon its inception, the Addisco Book Club held bi-weekly meetings that were elaborate affairs, extending throughout the day. The format included luncheons for the ladies, followed by a period of rest, culminating in their husbands joining them for dinner. 

“Women did not have as many options on social activities as they have now, so it was a real day off for the women to go have lunch somewhere,” shared Warren. “You got all dressed up, put on your Sunday best, and saw people that you didn’t see all the time that you liked a lot. It was fun.”

By the time of Warren’s joining in the 1950s, the club had transitioned to monthly luncheons. The club’s structure involved assigned programs that members worked on throughout the year, covering diverse topics and offering members an opportunity for in-depth study. 

“The first program I gave was on Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein,” reminisced Warren. “We were studying the Broadway stage and I corresponded with Hammerstein. I just loved it, and I learned a lot.”

The club’s commitment to intellectual pursuits was not limited to literature; it extended to local history as well. Warren highlighted a specific year when the focus was on the history of Washington. Her husband contributed by discussing historic markers, adding a community-oriented aspect to the club’s activities.

Leadership roles are embedded in the club’s constitution, ensuring a democratic and participatory structure. 

Membership in the early years was exclusive and often passed down through generations, fostering a sense of familial pride – and sometimes a little rivalry between families. The selection process was rigorous, with members voting on potential invitees. Only 25 members were allowed at any given time.

For Warren, the club’s lasting appeal lies in its adaptability and the diverse range of personalities it attracts. Friendships formed through the club proved enduring. 

“They are interesting people doing interesting things,” said Warren. “It is not stagnant. There is a variety of age and personalities. It’s about camaraderie.”

Warren’s journey, spanning decades of involvement, exemplifies the club’s ability to evolve while maintaining its core values. In a world that has transformed around it, the Addisco Book Club remains a living testament to the pursuit of something acquired every day.