TRADING CENTER / 1873–1918

Social Reformers

Dallas clubwomen led the fight for social reform at the turn of the century. After studying progressive measures elsewhere in the nation, they established free kindergarten and day nurseries for the children of factory workers and built playgrounds in parks in working-class neighborhoods. To encourage healthy children, they provided free milk and medical services to needy families and fought to outlaw child labor. They lobbied the city council for pure food and drug laws and clean water supplies.