A century ago, a group of Gloucester ladies looked with dismay upon an ancient and decaying village structure. To save it, they formed the Gloucester Woman’s Club. And they saved the Edge Hill House, for many years more familiarly known as Long Bridge Ordinary.

That’s the short story.

The longer version tells of generations of community service, of a continuing restoration effort, of the power that a small group can muster when it works together for a good cause.

In addition to purchasing and restoring the old landmark, the woman’s club has worked for county beautification, given flower shows, supported World War II efforts including relief to England before the U.S. became involved, supported art shows and community improvement, in fact, taken on a number of projects to serve Gloucester and mankind.

The club seems to be celebrating its centennial in a low-key fashion. We hope that before this year is over it will take its lamp from under the bushel, so to s...