The Women’s League was founded by a group of African American women – who were the wives of local ministers. Their vision and innovation was the impetus that drives the Women’s League some 100 plus years later.
Our History
More than 100 Years of Caring for and Educating Children
A devoted group of African-American ministers’ wives established the Women’s League Child Development Center in 1917 to meet the needs of migrant and immigrant families in Hartford. Services during the early years included a residence for single mothers and quality childcare for families and single women entering the workforce.
Today, as a recognized leader in the field of early childhood education, we operate a child development center with 17 classrooms that serve over 200 infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children.
Our Milestones
1917
1919
Moved into a house purchased on Avon Street in the Clay-Arsenal neighborhood.
1927
Becomes the first minority affiliate of the Greater Hartford Community Chest (now the United Way of the Capital Area)— a testimony to the value and quality of programs.
1932
Becomes vital part of a growing community though expansion of recreational activities for school-age children and adult education classes—especially for families hit hard by the Great Depression.
1947
Early childhood education becomes focus of programs offered.
1953
Relocation to present site at 1695 Main Street in Hartford.
1990
Capital building campaign begins for the new center.
1991
Became first inner-city early childhood education program to be accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
2009
New state-of-the-art facility opened.
2017
Celebrated 100 years of serving Hartford’s children and families.
2023
Unique Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) Learning Lab opened on the second floor of Women’s League
