Women such as Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, the leaders who began the movement that led the struggle for the right of women to vote, hold office and ultimately gain equality, and other outstanding achievers, and even the unknown heroines, are who the new Women’s History and Culture Center, located at 175 N. Willow St., No. 23, wants to help other women and men celebrate.

It is scheduled to open in September.

In order to accomplish their goal, it was first registered as a non-profit corporation in 2012, the WHCC received its official 501c3 designation on Oct. 19.

Jean Watkins, founder of the WHCC, is without a doubt someone that anyone would have called a pioneer or trailblazer back in the day. Some people would have a different term for it today such as self-starter, go-getter or even innovator. Watkins is the major force in the center and can certainly relate with the struggles of women over the years and the need for young women to have role models who can help show them that dreams are achievable no matter what the dream may be.

The WHCC is retelling history to change the future. The center has hundreds of books that share knowledge of women’s achievements and their role in history, provide inspiration for youth and can help enhance the lives of all. Society benefits when history is shared in its fullest and most complete telling, creating a unifying force that contributes to the strength and well-being of our nation.

There is also a section dedicated to women veterans and the many who paid the ultimate price in battle from the Revolutionary War to modern warfare.

Their mission is to share information on women’s achievements and multi-cultural issues to improve the quality of life of women and men in the greater Mesquite area.

The center also has a fully equipped kitchen and tea room that can be utilized for small meetings, informal get togethers, cooking demonstrations/clubs or any special event. The center can accommodate up to 24 people.

The WHCC will officially open its doors in September (exact date to be announced), hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to noon and 3-6 p.m.

For more information on the new Mesquite Women’s Center, how you can sign up as a volunteer, visit or donate, contact Jean Watkins at: SHOWGIRLS@rconnects.com.