The Monican Circle, a Wichita-based organization founded in 1914, continues its longstanding tradition of providing layettes—gift sets of baby clothing and accessories—to mothers in need. The group began with nine women from the Cathedral Parish in the Riverside neighborhood who sought to support new mothers by sewing and assembling essential items for infants.
Meetings were initially held every other week at members’ homes or local establishments such as Innes’ Tea Room and the Broadview Hotel. Early gatherings included luncheons costing less than $1.25, with members sewing together during the afternoon. Over time, traditions evolved; for example, members shifted from addressing each other formally to using given names in the 1960s.
Beth VinZant, Monican Circle historian and Church of the Magdalen parishioner, notes that membership has grown from nine founders to 54 today. “They started with nine members,” she said. “Today we have 54.” She explains that meetings are limited to nine per year with six hosts per meeting, so membership is capped accordingly.
The group’s activities have adapted over time but remain focused on service and companionship. Members gather not only to assemble layettes but also to share meals, raise funds, and support one another through life events. VinZant recalls her mother’s involvement: “It was a labor of love,” VinZant describes. “The women in the group were her friends and they were such a lovely bunch who would celebrate each other’s anniversaries and birthdays. But knowing how to knit was an expectation. It was not just a luncheon gathering. There were dues, everyone was expected to host, to sew, and help put together layettes.”
Initially funded by annual dues—$1 at first and now $20—the group also holds collections when supplies run low for items like diaper cream or onesies. Layettes are distributed through organizations such as A Better Choice and include diapers, soap, onesies, footed sleepers, socks, pacifiers, and handmade blankets.
Throughout its history—including during World Wars I and II—the Monican Circle expanded its charitable efforts beyond layettes by purchasing war bonds and supporting various causes such as Catholic Charities and Catholic Relief Services in New York City.
VinZant highlights ongoing traditions: “Another Monican tradition is to make a free-will donation in November and in December we vote on who will receive it,” she says. The group has organized drives for mittens or hats during winter months or supported clinics like Guadalupe Clinic when needs arise.
Family connections remain strong within the organization; some current members represent third- or fourth-generation involvement dating back to founding families like Jennie Pracht’s descendants.
Over the past decade since their centennial anniversary, Monican Circle has delivered more than 400 layettes to 19 charities across Wichita-area hospitals and churches while maintaining its mission: helping new mothers regardless of changing times or circumstances.
“We come together and support each other,” VinZant said about today’s members from multiple parishes across Wichita and neighboring communities like Andover. “If someone is sick, we pray for them… We show up for each other’s needs and for needs in the community.”