Woman's Improvement Association of Las Cruces
The Woman's Improvement Association (WIA) of Las Cruces, New Mexico (later known as the W.I.A. Las Cruces Woman's Club) was the first woman's club in Las Cruces and the second established in New Mexico. The group was active in Las Cruces until it was dissolved in 2000. WIA was responsible for creating the first park, first swimming pool, and first library in the city. Members worked to improve community life around the city. History The Woman's Improvement Association (WIA) of Las Cruces, New Mexico was established in 1894. It was the first woman's club in the city and the second oldest woman's club in the state. Several women worked together articles of incorporation for WIA, including Mary S. McFie, Kate Reymond, Emma E. Dawson, Ida Llewellyn and Emelia Ascarate. WIA became affiliated with the General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC). Members of the organization worked to improve the community in tangible ways, as well as advocating for social change, such as in their support of women's suffrage. By 1902, there were 11 members. WIA bought the city's first hearse so that the dead could "go to the grave site with dignity." The group also bought a sprinkler to fight the