SPECIAL FRANCHISE, DARGAVILLE.

White Ribbon, Volume 49, Issue 10, 18 November 1943, Page 3

SPECIAL FRANCHISE, DARGAVILLE.

A function in the Presbyterian Hall when they entertained members of the Women's Institute, Women’s Division, Mothers’ Union, Methodist and I resbytcriati Guild, and the Happiness Club. .The local president, Mrs. Jolly, presided. Mrs. I. Raynor led the ojiening Devotions. Mrs. Jolly outlined the strtiggic for the franchise, which covered a jieriod of 15 years till September 19, 1893, NewZealand being the first country in the world where women gained the franchise. Mrs. J Roberts, the District President, said that much had been gained since women won the vote. Many benefits tor women and children had been brought about by women’s influence. The speaker touched lightly on many of these benefits, such as the legal adoption of children, the marriage age, age of consent, temperance instructions in schools, and women hail taken tjieir place on councils, boards and committees.

Mrs. Harding gave some interesting reminiscences of early voting. She emphasised the necessity for the women of to-day to prepare and educate themselves to he capable of taking their part in tlie many places where they now had equal rights. Vocal items were <dven by Mrs. Raynor and Miss X. Thurston, Mr:. Cameron ami Mrs. Dunsford being Die accompanists. Afternoon tea vas served.