The Smith Club of Philadelphia was founded in 1923 with 103 original members. President William A. Neilson played a large part in organizing many of the club's early programs, which commonly included talks by Smith alumae and faculty, as well as other local professionals. The club has a history of participating in many of the Alumnae Club traditions, such as pecan sales, teas for accepted and graduating students, and scholarship funds for local Smithies. The club has also hosted a number of more unique activities, such as theater benefits from Treasure Island (1924) to Mame (1996).

Minutes and correspondence make up the large majority of this collection. Minutes of general and executive board meetings give a detailed record of club business and programs, as well as attendance. The correspondence is between board members, club members, and various members of Smith College faculty and staff. Additionally present are financial records, comprised of treasurer's reports, budgets, and receipts of college and scholarship gifts. Various materials such as program invitations, newspaper clippings, and reports on benefits, scholarships, and 7-college relations are also included.