Women’s Institutes

Wanganui Chronicle, 17 January 1949, Page 7

Women’s Institutes

Mangaweka Institute.— There was a very full attendance at the Christmas meeting of the Mangaweka Women’s Institute, presided over by Mrs. Barrell. In her opening speech the president mentioned the death of Mrs. Watts, the founder of women’s institutes, and members stood in silence as a mark of respect. The Golden Thread, a description of Christmas by Dickens, was read by Miss Sweet. The motto was given by Mrs. Salt, and read by Mrs. Rowan The roll call, “A child’s funny saying,” caused a great deal of laughter. The group meeting was discussed and it was decided to hold competitions for a wired shoulder spray and three plain white scones. The treasurer, Mrs. T. Hammond, presented the financial statement and a small account was passed for payment. A letter was received from England from a recipient of one of the institute’s overseas parcels. The librarian, Mrs. Waymouth, stated her intention of forming a junior library. Mrs. Waymouth was warmly commended for her action and the subscription for juniors was fixed at 2s 6d per annum. Members were asked to donate suitable books for which they had no further use. At the close of business a humorous sketch, “Engaging a Cook,” was given by Mesdames Henderson, Murphy, Murray, Oulsnam, and Rowan. The highlight of the afternoon was the Christmas tree, which .was prettily decorated and laden with gifts for young and old. All the gifts on the tree as well as a bag of sweets for each child, were provided by institute members. Amid I'un and laughter these were soon distributed and a delicious afternoon tea brought a happy meeting to a close. Votes of thanks were passed to Mesdames Barrell and Rowan for tying up the parcels, to other members for helping with the tree, and to Mr. Pairman for providing the tree. Competition winners were: Best bloom, Mesdames Dickson and Pairman equal 1, Mrs. Rowan 2; bowl of roses, Mrs. Pairman 1, Mrs Dickson 2, Mrs. Barrell 3; best vegetable, Mrs. Pairman 1, Mrs. Dickson 2, Miss Knight 3; nut loaf, Mrs. Dickson. 1, Mrs. Barrell 2, Mrs. Henderson 3; collection of homemade Christmas gifts, Mrs. Oulsnam 1, Miss Sweet 2. The entries in this competition were of a very high standard and the judges did not find it easy to make their decision.