September meeting

Gwen Jones was the guest president for the month continuing the celebration of our 80^th Anniversary. Members had put their names down to attend the many autumn and winter events organised by the County including Chinese Auction, Taste of Christmas and Christmas Concert. Members had stewarded and demonstrated crafts during the County Exhibition during Victorian Week. Members enjoyed a visit to Aberystwyth to see the musical Chess – many thanks to Shirley Jones who once again drove the mini-bus. Members had also enjoyed visits to Felindre and Llandewi WIs.

The guest speaker was the Rev. Ron Downey who came to talk on the history of thanksgiving and customs in America. He brought along a table full of “thanksgiving” decorations which his family use to decorate their home at Thanksgiving. He explained the history behind custom which was originally  a 3 day feast during July which was a time of plenty. However in 1863 President Lincoln wanted to encourage unity with North and South and set aside the last Thursday in October for Thanksgiving. This later varied through the years and is now held at the end of November. He explained how it was very much a family event. Since living in Wales his family meet other American families at ‘The White House’ in Cannock Chase where they all celebrate Thanksgiving together with a turkey and vegetables etc. He told members that his family don’t celebrate Halloween except as an enjoyable party for children.  recalled watching the television after the meal when a child, to see sport and a large parade held in New York. The Parade has taken place since 1924 and has Santa Claus as the ‘last person’ in the parade and who shouts – “Now you can start shopping for Christmas!”.  

Afterwards everyone enjoyed a delicious Harvest Supper. The competition for ‘The last rose of Summer’ was won by 1.Veronica Jones Davies 2.Jane Narborough 3.Ida Davies.