As you’ve probably heard by now, the Social Science Club of Terrell’s annual Tour of Homes, “Christmas in a Small Town,” is scheduled for Saturday, December 7 from 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. I’ve had the pleasure of serving as club president this year and have been so impressed with the dedication and spirit of service our members portray, which is no surprise since that is a principle our club was founded upon 125 years ago.
The Social Science Club of Terrell (SSC) was organized by a group of 14 ladies in 1894 with the objective to promote better acquaintance among those interested in educational attainments and to enlarge the opportunities for intellectual development and service to mankind and to one’s community. The founding members knew the importance of community and in 1987 joined forces with 21 other women’s clubs to form the Texas Federation of Women’s Clubs (TFWC). One of the goals of TFWC was to secure libraries for small towns in Texas. The SSC’s vision for Terrell became a reality in 1904 when the Andrew Carnegie Foundation funded the Carnegie Library in Terrell.
Today the SSC consists of 35 members, who like our founding members are equally committed to serving our community. Last year the SSC had a record-setting year with the Tour of Homes, raising $30,000. The recipients of the proceeds in 2018 were the Share Center of Terrell, Friends of the Hulsey Library, Terrell Heritage Society, Kaufman County Children’s Advocacy Center, Jake E’s Riding Round Up, Terrell Animal Alliance, and the Terrell ISD Excellence Foundation. The SSC was also able to award scholarships to three Terrell High School students from the class of 2019.
As we enter a season of Thanksgiving, we would be remiss if we didn’t once again take the opportunity to say how grateful we are to all who participate in our tour of homes in one way or another. These contributions would not be possible without the effort of our members, underwriting sponsors and partners, as well as the guests who visit Terrell’s historic homes each holiday season. All our supporters recognize the importance to contribute to society and continue to do so through events like ours and other local civic and social clubs, as well as shopping locally to support our small businesses, who in turn are constantly dedicating time and resources to support this community where they live and do business as well. It’s a cyclical effect and we’re so thankful for the wonderful people in our community who keep the longstanding tradition of service going.
You can support by purchasing tickets for this year’s Tour of Homes. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 the day of the tour where tickets can be purchased at any of the tour home. Purchase advance tickets online at sscofterrell.com/home-tour, or by visiting Alexandra’s Salon, The Front Porch, House and Buggy Collectibles, Re/MAX Landmark, or Terrell Chamber of Commerce.
Also, don’t forget to support our local businesses and philanthropists during Shop Home for the Holidays, Small Business Saturday on 11/30 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.