1925 photo 7

The Women and Girl Workers of the Civil War 61-65 (W. W. C. W.) was a group organized in 1918 to remember the contributions of women and girls in the Civil War. They are best remembered for donating the Abraham Lincoln bust that sits near the Alameda County Courthouse.

The group was founded by Sarah H. Wilson. 5 They met regularly at city hall. Some references suggest they were associated with the Grand Army of the Republic (G. A. R.), 1 though it may simply be that they were at a lot of the same events.

Annie Glud was a member. 2 Eliza Sheppard, sister of Jack London, and Ina Coolbrith were honorary members. 4 In 1918, Eliza Sheppard presented them with a banner. 3

c.1923-1925, Viola Murphy ran the organization, but Sarah Wilson was still active and still listed as "commander". The group was still meeting in 1945. The last mention I've found was in the obituary of Etta Wixson, apparently the last president. 8,9

1920 listing1944 listing

Links and References

  1. Girls of the Civil War Oakland Tribune March 14, 1920
  2. Women, Girls '61-'65 Oakland Tribune October 24, 1920
  3. Old Veterans Still Ready to Fight for Flag Oakland Tribune April 28, 1918
  4. Red, White and Blue to Greet G. A. R. Oakland Tribune May 5, 1918
  5. Girls of 61-65 to Hold Flag Rally Oakland Tribune September 19, 1918
  6. Women and Girls Dedicate Lincoln Floral Tribute Oakland Tribune April 15, 1921
  7. Girl Workers of Civil War, 61-65, Guests at Party Oakland Tribune June 28, 1925
  8. Bay Counties Vital Statistics Oakland Tribune April 6, 1945
  9. Sara Etta Peckham Wixson on FindAGrave.com
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