Women’s Institute closes its doors in Edenvale
“We learnt a lot about different topics and organisations; we have so many good memories.”
At the end of last year, the Edenvale branch of the Women’s Institute, which was founded in 1957, officially closed its doors.
Edenvale was one of two towns which still had branches open. Brakpan is the only town in Gauteng with an operational branch.
Former chairperson Maureen Scholfield said the institute was first formed in Ontario, Canada, towards the end of the 19th century.
Maureen, who joined the organisation more than 40 years ago, was its chairperson for 25 years.
She said one of the first Gauteng branches was founded during the World War II.
“The women used to meet and would make socks for the soldiers fighting in the war.”
The branch moved to the Edenvale Bowling Club 47 years ago.
“The bowling club was marvellous to the institute and gave us the venue free of charge.”
Scholfield said the institute’s focus was on teaching women new skills, hobbies and crafts. It also informed them on various topics discussed by guest speakers.
Ann Harrison, former committee member, said the discussions were always interesting.
“We learned a lot about different topics and organisations; we have so many good memories.”
Besides hosting meetings for its members, the branch raised funds for the Edenvale SPCA, Little Eden Society and Edenvale Care Centre Hospice.
Scholfield said the decision to close the branch’s doors for good was influenced by several factors.
These include, among others, a lack of new members joining the club, expenses incurred getting guest speakers and demonstrations. She also said there has been no one stepping forward to take over as chairperson of the organisation.
“At one stage the branch boasted a membership of 120. Last year it had 45, and the committee which once had 18 members, consisted of five members at the end of 2019,” said Harrison.
“It’s sad to see the branch close, but there are so many good memories from over the years,” said Scholfield.
“The interaction and comradery at the meetings were nice; they always had a great atmosphere,” she said.
Despite organising and running the branch with the assistance of other members, Scholfield and Harrison do not regret helping.
