Our Female Founders: Women Pioneers of Alcoholics Anonymous

Who were the women pioneers of Alcoholics Anonymous? How did their contributions shape our program of recovery? How are their experiences meaningful to us today? Join us in a weekend of learning, reflection and fellowship for women.

The retreat format will include speaker panels and presentations, small group discussion and activities focused on women who were partners in developing the program of Alcoholics Anonymous. We will learn more about their experiences and contributions and reflect on how their stories are meaningful to us in our 21st century lives.

In Akron, Ohio, Oxford Group women opened their homes for meetings and supported members of the emerging “Alcoholic Squad” until they broke away to form Akron’s A.A. Group #1. Henrietta Seiberling and Anne S., with Bill W. and Dr. Bob, used Oxford Group principles and practices as they worked out the spiritual foundation of what became A.A.’s 12-step program. Sister Ignatia’s work with Dr. Bob is considered a pioneering medical model for alcoholism treatment.

In New York, women hand-typed multiple drafts of the “Big Book,” organized and managed our early offices, handled voluminous correspondence during A.A.’s 1940s “flying blind” period as the number of groups and members in the U.S. and around the world mushroomed. They started the Grapevine, our “meeting in print,” and, recognizing the importance of our history, were the first to formally establish AA’s archives in Akron and New York. Their stories in the first and second editions of the Big Book spread the message that “women suffer too.” From the earliest days in Akron to the founding of Al-Anon Family Groups in 1951, they’ve provided compassionate support to spouses, children and other family members.

This retreat will open Friday evening, after the Friday Night Sober Supper, and close by 12pm on Sunday. Supper is not included in the registration fee – if you plan to join us for supper, please sign up on the registration form to the right or call The Wilson House at (802) to make a reservation. Suggested donation is $20.