Even though there was a division of classes among Charlottesville's African-Americans, membership in the social clubs was diverse.
Members of clubs such as The Art and Literary Society "were from all walks of life."
In any given club there might be members that were employed in different occupations such as beauticians, teachers, and laundresses.
All of these social clubs had meetings. They were held at a different members' house each month.
As it can be seen from the picture above, when a member was hosting a meeting, it was truly an affair where nothing but the best would do. Not only were the best clothes worn, as in this picture of the Young Women's Social Club, but the house was cleaned and a nice meal was served, as people constantly tried to outdo one another.