The Sorosis Club Building

In 1922, the Sorosis Club, a women's club in Lakeland, was organized and took its name from the Sorosis Club of New York, the first incorporated women's club in America. Its mission included community service as well as social and cultural activities. The club purchased this property in 1925 for a new clubhouse, approved plans in 1926 for an Italian Renaissance building designed by Lakeland architect W.B. Talley, and completed construction in 1927 under N. L. Snelson at a cost of $42,000. The clubhouse became the first community center in the city. Its Italian Renaissance design reflects a style popular in the United States between 1890 and 1935, with a symmetrical front, flat roof with a low surrounding wall, wrought-iron railings, recessed porches with arches, and small classical columns. Goldenrod, the club flower, is stenciled below the roof, and two large stone lanterns beside the front walk represent knowledge and leadership. The building's detailing is unique in Lakeland and unusual in the Central Florida region.

Lakeland, Florida · United States