About Friends of Frances

 

Celebrate Frances Willard’s legacy with a community of friends and supporters—sharing her story, inspiring one another, and making a difference. Signing of the WCTU pledge is not required to join.

 

"Do Everything" -- Because Everyone Can Do Something!

 

Friends of Frances was started by Virginia Beatty in the late 1990s. Virginia was a WCTU member. She and her husband William served as archivists at the National WCTU Archives and Library, located in the National WCTU Historic Headquarters in Evanston, Illinois, for many years until their deaths. They also volunteered at the Frances Willard House Museum.

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Friends of Frances’s first event was a Wreath Laying Service celebrating Frances Willard's heavenly birthday on February 17, 1998. It was held at the Frances Willard Statue in Statuary Hall, U.S. Capitol Building, Washington, D.C. Speakers included the National WCTU President Sarah F. Ward, National WCTU Vice President Rita K. Wert, Maryland State President Bunny S. Galladora, a member of Friends of Frances, and Virginia Beatty, the founder and archivist.

 

Frances Willard's Christian Faith

Frances Willard's life was rooted in her strong Christian faith. She believed that Christ's love called her to serve others and create a more Christlike society. She frequently quoted the Bible, viewing her reform work as part of God's kingdom-building. Her motto, "For God and Home and Every Land," reflected her desire for Christian principles to guide daily life, education, and public policy.

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Willard taught that Christian discipleship is active and should influence every aspect of life.

 

Our Goals

Awareness: Share Frances Willard's story and leadership in reform.

Education: Provide resources and programs about her work.

Action: Inspire members to practice her Christian "Do Everything" policy in daily life.

Preserve: Support her legacy through historic sites, such as the Frances Willard House Museum and the National WCTU Archives.

 

Activities

- Do Everything projects

- Virtual tours

- Heritage tours of the Frances Willard House Museum

- Annual celebrations, such as Frances Willard's birthday (September 28th) & her heavenly birthday (February 17th)