National League of American Pen Women
Professional Women in the Arts
Inspiration in Every Turn
Creativity is our name
NLAPW Established in 1897
The National League of American Pen Women, Inc. (NLAPW) was founded in 1897 when women journalists were not permitted to join male-only professional organizations. The League became a professional organization for women writers, artists and composers, where they could be recognized for their talents.
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About Us
Santa Clara County Branch was established in 1922.
Our meetings are held once a month in the Headen-Inman Historical Museum House in Santa Clara, California.
We are proud of the NLAPW headquarters, established in 1897, The Pen Arts Building, and its place among other historic buildings in Dupont Circle, a popular tourist destination in Washington, D.C.
Santa Clara County Branch Celebrates 100 Year Anniversary
Centennial Celebration
Santa Clara County Branch celebrated our 100th year anniversary in May of 2023. We showcased our pen women talents and enjoyed a delicious catered Greek lunch. Because of the pandemic our celebration was delayed a year, but it didn't dampen our spirits. It was a joyous occasion and the 14 charter members of March 1922 would be so pleased to see how their small start has grown to over 60 members.
In honor of our centennial a 166-page, full color "We Are Pen Women" book compiled by Luanna Leisure was published. Available on Amazon.com, LuLu.com and other online bookstores.
Site Content
Mardi Gras Luncheon
Our Celebrity Luncheon has gone on for more years than I know. Close to 100 years. This event is a fundraiser for female students continuing their educations and who are talented in the arts. We also honor professional women from the community who excel in writing, art, and music. They are nominated by Pen Women and are special guests at our fundraiser luncheon. They receive a lunch, a special certificate and have a table to sell and/or present their talents.
Non-Member Poetry Contest
Greet the winners of our annual non-member poetry competition. Watch for information about our next competition.
Limerick Contest
Winners of our annual National Limerick Contest. It is open to pen women members and members-at-large across the United States.
Donations & Pay Dues
Donations are gladly accepted by PayPal, Debit or Credit card. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit tax-exempt organization. Federal ID #23-7214204. Also, Pen Women may pay their annual dues.