The national General Federation of Women's Clubs was organized in 1890. It soon became apparent, however, that a closer parent organization would be advantageous, so state federations were created. In October 1896, by invitation of the Milwaukee Endowment Association, 105 delegates representing 63 clubs, met in the Pfister Hotel, Milwaukee, and formally organized the Wisconsin Federation of Women's Clubs, which strove to improve the general welfare of the state. The club's activities included working to establish libraries throughout the state, improving laws affecting women and children, and improving educational facilities. The Federation also participated in a conservation program, an educational loan fund, nurses' scholarships, and other projects.
