So began the "minutes" of the very first meeting of The Ladies Improvement Society. Today's objective remains the same as when it was originally founded: to raise funds for improvements of the grounds and to promote sociability.

On August 18, 1908, the first bazaar was held to raise funds for the Ladies Improvement Society; it has been in effect continually, except for the year 1918. On June 21, 1966, the ladies voted to hold an auction. The auction has become an annual event as a "Silent Auction" is held each year as an important component of the yearly bazaar.

Lettering adorning 'The Haven'

While the name "The Ladies Improvement Society" may seem quaint, there is nothing quaint about the women who make up our membership! They continue to share the vision first set forth in 1908 - and they work tirelessly to take care of the Willimantic Camp Meeting Association owned buildings, and to provide fellowship opportunities! Men are also welcome to participate as there is much work to be done!

In the early days of the organization, cottages were purchased and rehabilitated to meet the changing needs of the camp meeting community. It has been an important focus to have houses available for guesting on the camp meeting, and the Society has been up to the challenges of not only caring for and improving the cottages that are owned by the Willimantic Camp Meeting Association community, but raising money to update each facility. In the past they have produced a "Campground Cookbook" as a fund raiser, and they also have sponsored Christian outreach projects!