The What-So-Ever Circle of the International Order of the King’s Daughters and Sons of Burlington, Iowa was established in 1892 and celebrated its 125th anniversary in April of 2017. Their mission from the onset was to “lend a hand” and be of service to those in need in our area. For the next twenty-four years circle members:
- Cleaned and remade garments for impoverished women
- Prepared generous baskets of food for the needy
- Gave shoes to men, women and children.
- Large amounts of clothing were sent to Nebraska
- Toys were collected were given to children at Christmas
- A sewing school was opened for women
- A room at the Burlington hospital was furnished
The circle members have organized many fundraisers to support their endeavors:
- In 1906, a steamboat excursion was organized to raise money for an addition to the hospital
- A doll hospital was opened in 1910
- Small dolls were purchased from France and other countries and the Circle members knit and hand-stitched beautiful outfits for them. The dolls and clothing were sold throughout the United States and abroad
- A food booth was held for many years at the Tri-State Fair
- Rummage sales, plays at the Grand Opera House, card and garden parties, teas and dances were held to raise money for the Home
In 1916, the Circle members decided to create a home for the elderly. The original plan was to build a new facility, but four years later, after they had raised a sizeable sum of money, the women purchased the brick, Victorian home at 628 S. Leebrick Street then owned by Stutsman family.
After much work and renovations, the home was opened in 1922. However, it soon became apparent that the home was too small to accommodate the need in the community for elderly housing, and twelve rooms were added to the east end of the house.
Over the years, the What-So-Ever Circle and the Home continued to grow and change. A trust fund was established and many members and friends have generously contributed over the years. This has allowed the Home to be kept in excellent condition and provides comfortable retirement living for many senior women and men.
Originally, the Home had fourteen bedrooms and two bathrooms. At present, there are eight rooms including two suites, all with private bathrooms. It is still owned and supported by the King's Daughters and Sons What-So-Ever Circle and operated by a Board of nineteen members.