Romanby WI celebrates 95th anniversary in 1920s style

The current committee at Romanby WI dressed in 1920s style to celebrate the 95th Anniversary.

Romanby WI has celebrated its 95th anniversary in 1920s style.

The group based at Romanby near Northallerton has 80 members and a waiting list.

Formed in 1928, the group celebrated its 95th anniversary with a party for members and two guests from the regional body, the North Yorkshire East Federation of WI’s.

Members were invited to dress in 1920s fashions for the occasion, and the hall was decorated in black and gold paper chains, fans, and banners.

Romanby WI owns its own hall, which is used by the community much like a village hall, helping to make the WI a part of everyday life in the village.

The timber hall was built in 1939 and is still in great condition thanks to its careful custodianship.

During a toast at the event, current president, 37-year-old Samantha Jennings described her pride at being part of Romanby Women’s Institute.

“It’s thanks to all the women who’ve been part of Romanby WI in the last 95 years that we are stood here today. From those first founding members to each and every one who has been a part of it since.

“We stand on the shoulders of their hard work, commitment, and passion. I’d like to thank them all, I’d like to thank you all today, and all the women who will be part of the WI in the future. We are part of an amazing force, locally, regionally and nationally.”

During the event the names of the founding committee members were read aloud, and photo albums of past members and events were displayed.

The first ever general meeting of Romanby WI was held on 23rd October 1928 at the Dairy Institute, no longer standing. 56 members paid their subscription and Mrs Adele Watson was elected as President.

The WI is enjoying a national resurgence with, many long standing branches becoming more popular and new groups being formed. In North Yorkshire East Federation, Pickering WI was reformed last year and is now thriving.

Next door to Romanby a new WI is in the process of being formed in Northallerton. At the coast a new WI has been proposed for Filey.

You can find out more about the WI in North Yorkshire East Federation at www.nyorkseastwi.org.uk or follow them on Facebook.

If you’d like to find out more about the new Northallerton WI a second interest meeting is taking place on Wednesday 26th July at 7:30pm in Northallerton Town Hall, simply come along to find out more about how to get involved.

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