Forum and Ethical Culture Club Records

The Forum, originally established as the Ethical Culture Club in Brookings, South Dakota, in 1906, began as a liberal theological alternative to church attendance and later became a platform for open discussions on topics such as child labor laws, public libraries, and peace advocacy. Renamed The Forum in 1910, the group attracted college-affiliated members and professionals, fostering intellectual engagement and community action. This collection includes the club’s undated constitution, correspondence, programs, program notes, a 1923 historical account, records of Ethical Culture Club meetings, and minutes from Forum meetings, offering insight into the organization’s discussions and impact.