WELLINGTON COUNTY – The Federated Women’s Institutes of Ontario (FWIO) is celebrating its 125th anniversary.
Started in 1897 in Stoney Creek, founders advocated for an organization that could provide education for women on homemaking.
“From its humble beginnings in rural Ontario, [FWIO] spread across Canada and around the world,” states a press release submitted to the Advertiser.
“Over 9 million women in over 70 countries now serve their communities as proud members of this historic organization.”
As of 1933, Halton and Wellington Counties were a part of FWIO subdivision 9.
“Although Wellington North did not amalgamate with Halton, Wellington South, and Wellington Centre in 2004, we are pleased to recognize all the branches in Wellington County, past and present, as we celebrate 125 years of the Women’s Institute,” states the release.
Wellington-Halton Hills MP Michael Chong spoke about the Women’s Institute in the House of Commons last week, lauding the organization for offering “inclusive and supportive social networking for women, and community action in the personal growth of women.”
Chong added, “Women’s Institutes offer educational programs, and advocate for social, environmental and economic change today …
“I’d like to thank all of the volunteers of Women’s Institutes that have served our local communities. Congratulations on this important anniversary.”
The Wellington-Halton Hills District is celebrating the anniversary by holding a tea for members on June 18.
The district chose a tea as it’s an opportunity to sit and socialize, which is less intimidating for older members than a complicated event, said Glenna Smith, secretary of the district and chair of the tea event.
Smith added current and past members are all invited to the event, which will include the serving of rhubarb punch, tea, sandwiches, cupcakes and strawberries.
There will be a few speeches at the event, including one from Smith, and each member will leave with a booklet documenting the history of the Wellington-Halton Hills FWIO District.
“The booklets are just beautiful,” said Smith.
There have not been many in-person FWIO events run since COVID-19, she noted, so there is much excitement for this one.
Noting Women’s Institutes have seen a decline in members over the years, Smith emphasized it is a good organization that welcomes “any women, any youth.”
Smith has been a part of Women’s Institutes for 57 years.
A few days after she first moved to the area as a newlywed, she had a visit from her neighbour.
“She said, ‘you’re going to join FWIO,” said Smith, who agreed and, after attending her first meeting, has never looked back.
