Empowering Voters - Defending Democracy
History
Our History
History of the League of Women Voters of Adams County
By Carolyn Thompson (1991)
What is now the League of Women Voters of Adams County was first organized as the Westminster League of Women Voters. It began with a group of women who were acquainted by membership in the Westminster Presbyterian church, but all women from the fast-growing town of Westminster were welcomed. The town began as a sleepy little railroad stop called deSpain Junction. Later it was called Harris Park, and finally was named Westminster for Westminster College which was located on the hill. Established by the Presbyterian Church, the college has belonged to the Pillar of Fire Church since 1920.
Late in 1946 and early 1947, the first subdivisions of GI homes were built in the City and the explosive post-war growth began. By 1956, the city was ready to write its first home rule charter, and with the increased interest in local government, the Westminster League was formed. Kay Veldorale accepted the position as president of the provisional League and began work on the "Know Your City" study which was required before the League could be granted full status. A "Know, Your City" booklet was published in January 1957 when Denamae Fox was president.
The first meetings were held in the red brick home of Til (Matilda) Campbell which crowned the hill at 81st and Lowell, its Dutch gable roof still a distinguished landmark in the city. By 1960, the Westminster League had attracted members from the suburbs of Northglenn, Thornton, and other areas of Adams County. We realized that we needed to be more than the Westminster League and began the process of becoming the League of Women Voters of Adams County. This meant that we had to undertake a "Know Your County" study, with a booklet published in November 1961. Relva Wilson was the president who oversaw the transition into the Adams County League.
In 1975, under president Joan Novy, a study of six Adams County communities was compiled, and in 1976 the "Know Your County" book was updated. The League conducted studies of school districts in Adams County, local Land use, planning and zoning, and the Tri-County Health Department. In 1987, we published "Adams County, Today and Tomorrow.”
Since this history was written, the LWV of Adams County has continued to be active in the county and communities within the county. Our members serve on community boards and commissions. Through our Voter Service activity League provides information on the voting process, distributes pamphlets (published by LWVCO) which explain briefly and concisely the issues on the ballot, and gives unbiased talks on the ballot issues. LWV does not support candidates but we do work with groups to provide candidate forums for the public. We study issues and, after a consensus of the membership has established positions, we act to provide information and influence policy. We present educational programs for the public on various issues and work with other groups on forums on water issues, the future of the front range, and education to name a few. We are proud to be involved with issues in Adams County and hope to continue this partnership.
