Findhorn Scottish Women's Institute celebrates 90th birthday with a party at the James Milne Institute
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A women’s group celebrated its 90th birthday with an informative display, cake and readings.
President Joan Miller and 16 members of the Findhorn Scottish Women’s Institute (FSWI) also welcomed SWI president Anne Kerr as well as Moray and Nairn Federation president Sybil Stuart to their 90th birthday supper at the James Milne Institute.
FSWI secretary Janet Wallace confirmed everyone admired a display of photographs, press articles, and awards gained by the branch.
She said: “A birthday cake baked and decorated by member Margaret Allan was cut by the three presidents and honorary member, Elsie Kelly. After the meal Joan entertained with a selection of minutes recorded over the years. Then fellow member Sue Finnegan delighted the company with a recitation of a poem she wrote for the occasion.”
The first Women’s Institute was formed in Scotland in Longniddry, East Lothian in 1917. Now, with headquarters in Edinburgh, 30 Federations throughout Scotland and 514 Institutes, SWI still bring a broad mix of women together to connect, share, teach and meet.
FSWI held its first meeting in February 1932 following a public meeting held in the previous month to gauge interest. There were initially 43 members. In October 1933, the members were honoured when their meeting used electric lighting for the first time. The ladies have always met in the James Milne Institute on the first Tuesday of each month from September to May. FSWI currently has 20 members.
“We enjoy a variety of activities, arts and crafts, sport and supporting village clubs,” said Janet. “But we are happy to try anything! We enjoy outings to the theatre, visiting places of interest and learning new skills.
“We are delighted FSWI has notched up 90 years of building lifelong friendships.”
Email jwallace105@gmail.com for more information about FSWI.
