The Handicraft Van Program peaked in 1960 when 404 members from 45 Women’s Institutes

participated in courses in 21 centres across the Island.

By the sixties, times were quickly changing. The young people in big cities were anti-war and all about peace, love and equality. Times were changing for women, too. The institute members still addressed themselves using their husband’s given name and then surname. But, slowly, with a stroke-by-stroke of a pen, the women’s own names were beginning to sneak into reports and

letters. The Vietnam War was in its fifth year, and there was no end in sight.

In May of 1960, a presentation on fire safety was led by Freda and Blanche Woodside. And not a

minute too soon. There were many fires, and many people lost their homes.

In March, the National Women’s Institute required the aid of all the institutes to help raise funds to buy the homestead of Adelaide Hoodless, founder of the organization in Stoney Creek,

Ontario. The Knutsford Institute gave $1.80.

In January 1961, special guest speaker Mrs. Clifford Ellis gave a presentation on the

“Preparation for Motherhood.”

In April, the institute collected for the Red Cross and $4.15 was donated to a needy family.

Groceries were bought for a family in need and three quilts were given out. A letter from the Hospital Aid requested help with their picnic. $5 was given for the ham.

In December 1962, it was moved and seconded that some sewing be done for the Red Cross and

to get enough for 12 members to do. Meetings, it was stressed, were to start on time.

At the first meeting of the New Year in 1963, it was moved by Blanche Woodside and seconded by Helen Adams that members and husbands have a banquet. It would take place the third week in June, and St. Luke’s Hall would cater a turkey supper to celebrate their 35 Anniversary supper. The institute did their share of catering. They catered hot suppers to the Mason’s annually and, at times, to the directors of the Alberton Exhibition.

In April 1963, Isobel Harris read a paper on agriculture concerning possible improvements in the

district. Mrs. MacGregor, teacher of special needs children, was introduced by Lilly Adams.

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