History

The initial idea of forming a Women’s Institute at Ballyblack was instigated by Mrs.Maud Boyd and in the autumn of 1957, a preliminary meeting was held at her home to assess the level of interest in the local area and discuss the potential viability of an institute. About a dozen local women attended the meeting which was presided over by Miss Dulcie Proctor, the NI Federation General Secretary at that time. Mrs.Sally Cuthbertson, the Executive Member for the area and Miss Proctor fortunately agreed that there did appear to be scope for the formation of an institute in the Ballyblack area and advised that a formal, public meeting should be arranged in the near future.

This meeting which was duly held in Ballyblack Presbyterian Church Hall had an attendance of 30 women from the area.

Miss Proctor gave a comprehensive resume of the WI organisation since its initial formation in Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada in 1897 and summarised its ideals and rules. Prior to the formation of the first Women’s Institute, there were very few, if any, organisations in which rural women could become involved. By providing a source of support, education and companionship, the Women’s Institute was able to fill this void. It was then proposed that a public formation meeting be held on 29th October 1957 at which the first office bearers and committee would be elected.

The first Office Bearers of Ballyblack WI were duly elected as follows:
Mrs W S Kingan (President), Mrs R D Mawhinney (Secretary), Miss E Warden (Treasurer), and
Mrs J S McAdam (Vice President). The Committee included: Miss Kingan, Miss A Patton, Mrs H D Boyd, Mrs W J Patton and Mrs J McFerran.

Thanks to all of these farsighted women, Ballyblack WI was officially formed and, for their vision and aspirations, we put on record our debt of gratitude.