Lil Punks Club Records

The Lil Punks began having formal weekly meetings the fall of 1938. Each meeting had the treasurer’s and secretaries reports, new business etc. Purpose was to pass on any kindness given to them which translated to making doll clothes, stuffed animals, and scrapbooks for children. They also performed by singing at nursing homes and hospitals. A strong component of the club was planning social occasions. Food was also an important component of the meeting. The membership included only girls from the graduating class of 1941 from West High School. The group met continuously through their remaining years at West. After high school, formal get togethers were very rare for the whole group. Then in 1982, there was a revival of the club. Thereafter they met on an annual basis in each others homes or vacation homes around the country as friends, to see the sights and have a relaxing time.

Jean Pardo while in high school and then in the 1980s did a social study on the women in the group and their families. Looking at the girl’s parents-what their jobs were and educational levels, number of siblings, and for the Lil Punk members their education levels and home and/or professional careers, the women as individuals and as mothers and wives.

Minneapolis’ West High School seemed to have generated some strong leaders and activists for the city of Minneapolis and beyond, particularly for the late 30s and 40 classes. This informal club is an example of the structure and direction that many West High students from that era seemed to possess.

Members of the Lil Punks included Aarness, Helen Margaret; Ackerman, Mary Ellen; Alexander, Mary Ellen; Benson, Marjorie Grace; Callahan, Audrey Ellen; Chapman, Marilyn; Crail, Lois Mae; Hogan, Lelah; McLellan, Jean Ellen; Paul, Phyllis Ann; and Wiese, Karin Antonette.