Mary Atwater Kelsey
Mary Atwater Kelsey, usually known socially as Mrs. Charles B. Kelsey, was an American clubwoman. She served two terms as president of the National Federation of Music Clubs.
Early life
Mary Atwater was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the daughter of Luman R. Atwater and Ann Farnsworth Atwater. Her father was a businessman.Career
Kelsey was a church organist in Grand Rapids. From 1898 to 1902 she was president of the St. Cecilia Society of Grand Rapids, which she helped to organize in 1883. She welcomed the National American Woman Suffrage Association to Grand Rapids in 1899. She was also chair of the Civic Music Committee of Grand Rapids. She took particular interest in bringing musical performances to disadvantaged audiences, including disabled veterans, prisoners, orphans, factory workers, and residents of the local "poor farm".Kelsey was president of the National Federal of Music Clubs for two terms, elected in 1907, and re-elected in 1909. During her presidency, the number of local clubs doubled, and a vice president was appointed for each state; the NFMC also established prizes for living American composers. After her active presidency, she attended British meetings of music clubs representing the NFMC.