Vintage hats, dresses and furs were sported by several members of the Palmerston branch of Retired Women Teachers of Ontario (RWTO) as they celebrated a Historical Day at the Presbyterian Church in Palmerston on May 24.
Betty Simpson drew much attention dressed in a nun’s habit which, she explained, was in memory of her first school principal whom she admired.
New president Oriole Blyth welcomed everyone and thanked the historical and decorating committees and Shirley Jackson for their hard work and efforts to make the day special.
The purpose for the day, she explained, was to celebrate the beginnings of the organization and especially the beginnings of the Palmerston branch.
Members are proud the branch now has 70 members, including lifetime members, and continues to increase annually.
Blyth opened the meeting by reading a list of “Rules for Teachers 1872,” getting many laughs with such items as: “Teachers each day will fill lamps and clean chimneys” and “Women teachers who marry or engage in unseemly conduct will be dismissed.”
Shirley Jackson, Marilyn Cherry, Pauline Brown and Lynn Morrison had researched some of the history of the RWTO/OERO organization and the Palmerston Branch which they shared with the group.
The organization, which formed in 1956, was originally called the Ontario Association of Superannuated Women Teachers of Ontario (OASWT). Cora Bailey, in memory of whom an award is presented each year in each branch, was the driving force behind the formation and early growth of OASWT.
A small group of retired women teachers in Toronto known as the Rendezvous Club met to persuade the Ontario government to raise the level of pensions for retired women teachers to the same level as their male colleagues.
The Palmerston Branch was formed around 1976 when some retired women teachers from the area convened in Margaret Robinson’s home. Edith Bramhill of Palmerston was elected president, Mary Morphy as secretary and Lenore Murcar was treasurer. Seven members joined.
There are presently 52 branches of Retired Women Teachers in Ontario with over 5,000 members. They continue to support charities that help women and children in need.
Each table of ladies enjoyed sharing fond memories and stories of their teaching days. Memories of hectographs, entrance exams, inspector’s visits and Christmas concerts in one-room schoolhouses were relived by many. Shirley McKay’s story of travelling by horse to her first school was especially interesting to the group.
Blyth recognized Jackson with a bouquet of flowers and thanked her for the hard work and countless hours in compiling the 13 history books outlining the history of the Palmerston Branch of RWTO/OERO since 1976. The books were all on display for members to enjoy.
Past president Kathy Brown surprised Betty Tarc as this year’s recipient of the Cora Bailey Award, which is given to a branch member who has contributed outstanding service to her branch. Tarc has held various teaching positions throughout her career and is an active member of RWTO/OERO where she has also filled several roles, especially visiting shut-in members.
Barb Thompson has volunteered to become the issues and concerns representative replacing Bea Houston who has held the position for many years. Thompson reported that, as of July 1, there will be some changes regarding pasSports. New E-pasSports with a security chip will be part of the new system. Travellers will also be able to apply for either a five-year or 10-year passport but fees will be increasing.
Donna McFarlane reported that polio is still active in some parts of the world such as India and Africa so adults travelling there will need to get the booster. Thompson also commented that it is important to consider getting the shingles vaccine, especially if you are a grandparent dealing with young children since it is linked to chickenpox.
Anne Darroch and Marg Dally, the two delegates for this year’s convention in Hamilton outlined the four resolutions they will be voting on. Seven members will be attending the convention.
Travel convenor Lynn Morrison reminded members of the upcoming trips to Deerhurst, Agawa Canyon and Stratford. A trip to Boston is being considered for 2014.
The draw prize donated by Marg Hall was won by Donna McFarlane. The Charity Bottle was passed around and six members paid fines for not wearing their pins. Marg Dally presented each of the ladies of the Presbyterian Church with a carnation and thanked them for preparing the meals for the branch since 1999.
Darroch reported the outing for the Book Club will be at Mrs. Mitchell’s Restaurant in Violet Hill on June 14. The Walking Club will meet in Elora on June 18.
Blyth adjourned the meeting and encouraged everyone to attend the Strawberry Social in Drew Park on June 21.
submitted by Joan Woods
