History of the Alberta Women's Institutes

Newspaper Article - 'History of the Alberta Women's Institutes' - by Les Dunford - Barrhead Leader, July 28, 1997AWI CollectionHistory of the Alberta Women's Institute LES DUNFORD T& C Editor T he Alberta Women's In­stitute ( AWI) has been around since 1909. The AWI movement began in On­tario 100 years ago. Now, there is a book just recently out about the fasci­nating story of the Alberta Women's Institute. " Many and Remarkable," written by Catherine C. Cole and Judy Larmour is that sto­ry, and explores Alberta women's role in the events that have marked our history. Esther Brown, who works on the farm with her husband Earl, has been an AWI mem­ber for many years. She re­cently read the book and says " There sure was a lot of work done by AWI members through the years from wel­coming immigrants, war brides, helping with food, clothing, etc., to other coun- B a r r h e a d L e a d e r , J u l y 2 8 , 1997 The book talks about the beginnings of AWI in Alberta in 1909 as a small group of isolated women around Lea Park, to an extensive network of branches throughout the province today tries in war years, and much more." She feels it is a well writ­ten book that allows the read­er to familiarize themselves in what WI has done and what they stand for. " Many and Remarkable" contains stories of pioneering and the challenges and achievements of women. Through their efforts, they have advocated on behalf of the legal rights of women and children. The book also talks about the development of public ed­ucation and health care sys­tems; and homefront activity during the First and Second World Wars. It looks at the AWI role in international peace and development, and their consistent interest in agricultural issues and farm safety. It is a remarkable record of service by and for women throughout the province, and includes a complete list of AWI branches in Alberta. The book talks about the beginnings of AWI in Alberta in 1909 as a small group of isolated women around Lea Park, to an extensive network of branches throughout the province today. Many and Remarkable is the result of extensive archival and oral history re­search and makes an impor­tant contribution to both women's history and to the history of Alberta. Copies are available while they last at $ 24.95 each, plus shipping, handling and tax/ and can be obtained from any AWI member, or ordered through the AWI office at Suite 220. 10403 - 172 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5S 1K9. If you have any questions, you are asked to please call the AWI office at ( 403) 469- 1254