SAWC Afternoon Tea features local dignitaries
The Salem Area Women’s Club–GFWC (SAWC) is commemorating its 100th Anniversary throughout 2026. On May 5th, the club continued their celebration of a century of service and sisterhood with an afternoon tea at historic Searles Castle, Windham. Attendees, many gaily attired in elegant hats and tea-length dresses, enjoyed an afternoon of spring gardens, tours of the castle, and music in the air, before partaking of tea with all its delectable accompaniments under the grande tent.
The tea’s Guest of Honor was Wendy Carriker, Incoming President of GFWC International. Other dignitaries included Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander, US representative of NH’s second district, and Donna Maskwa, GFWC-NH President Elect.
The event included local teens, who represent tomorrow’s women leaders. The Salem High School Air Force Jr ROTC performed a presentation of the Colors, and attendees enjoyed a special performance by the Salem High School Advanced A Cappella Chorus, directed by David Scheiber. SAWC President Patti Drelick also presented a $500 donation to the Salem High School Key Club to support their efforts to grant the wish of a 12-year-old NH boy with congenital heart disease.
Of the Colors
Since its founding in 1926, the SAWC organization has provided fellowship and philanthropic opportunities for women in the community. Now 120+ members strong and growing, SAWC is a vibrant service and social organization committed to making a difference. In the past year alone, the club contributed more than $50,000 to nearly 90 organizations and causes at the local, state, national, and international levels.
For more information, please call (603) 818-9172, visit www.salemareawomensclub.org, follow us on Facebook, or email salemareawomensclub@gmail.com.
