Blanche Wood was born in 1887 and grew up in Moline, Ill. She became interested in playing the piano at a very young age and continued to do so throughout her life. Because she enjoyed playing the piano so much, she would practice for one hour each night before going to bed. This was her way of relaxing.

Blanche graciously shared her talent with family, friends and organizations she became involved with. In 1933, Blanche became a member of the P.E.O. Chapter BL, and would play the piano at chapter meetings. Members of the chapter used to say that Blanche was a perfect lady. She was serene and warm-hearted.

In 1972 Blanche Wood passed away. Because she and her husband did not have any children, Blanche’s niece wanted to honor her love of music. She did so by making a gift to the P.E.O. Chapter every year. This gift, along with other memorial gifts, inspired the Chapter to create the Blanche Wood music award. This scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating female student at Moline High School by the music faculty for excellence in music.