The Grand Rapids Study Class, as it was originally called, was organized Nov. 10, 1904 “for the mutual helpfulness, literary work, and general charities.” It is said to be the first organization for black women in Grand Rapids. The records document the social and business affairs of the Club. The first yearbook was created by hand in 1905-1906. In 1906, the Club became a member of the National Federation of Women's Clubs, and also the State Chapter. In 1926 a junior club, the Pierian Club, was created for younger members. As the membership grew, the club became focused more on aiding various charities, expounding black ideals and acting as a support group for the black community in general.

The date of formal transition from the earlier name “Grand Rapids Study Class” to its later name, “Grand Rapids Study Club,” has not yet been determined, and usage of both terms overlapped for several years.

A Feb. 5, 1942 letter in this collection includes an image of a building at 427 James Ave., which the Club was purchasing as a future clubhouse. A contract and a tax history from 1935, located in the collection, suggest an even earlier association of the Club with the property. Work was begun around 1979 to propose the property at 427 James Ave. as an historic landmark. In January 1985, the Club was informed that the Paul H. Richens House/Grand Rapids Study Club Clubhouse had been listed in the Michigan State Register of Historical Places. Paul Richens (ca. 1844-1927) was a prominent early Grand Rapids builder, believed to have constructed and lived in this house.