Women’s Institute

womens1The WI Movement was founded in Canada in 1897 by Adelaide Hoodless, following the death of her young son.  She thought his death was due to her ignorance of health and hygiene.  She began homecraft and domestic science classes for the women of the local farming community.  These were popular and soon spread across Canada.  In 1915 the first UK Institute opened in Anglesey in North Wales.

Today the WI is an incorporated registered charity offering women the opportunity to learn together, to work to improve the life of the rural community and to develop their own skills and talents.  There are now WI’s in urban areas as well.  It is non-sectarian and non-party political; nevertheless it has a voice on national matters, especially those concerning women.  Through the ACWW [Associated Country Women of the World] there are links with similar organisation throughout the world.

Good Friends to make
Outings for all tastes
Denman College for a range of courses
Science Group organises specialised talks and visits
Talks on varied subjects every month
Other enjoyable activities
New members always welcome
Excellent events – organised locally and nationally
Walks and Crafts
Involvement in the community.

GodstoneWI was founded in 1960 and is a friendly group of ladies who meet in the White Hart Barn [Godstone Village Hall] on the third Wednesday of each month [excepting August] at 2.15 pm to hear a speaker and enjoy tea and a chat.  Speakers cover a wide range of topics. 

Evening WI is the last Monday in the Month to be held in St Nicholas Youth Centre unless otherwise stated.