Fonds - Iona Station Women's Institute fonds

The Iona Station Women's Institute grew out of a community club which was social but had an objective of service to the community. By a majority vote, the club decided to become an Institute and was organized on October 18, 1928 in the community hall.
The Institute did much for the community. Cards, baskets of fruit and flowers have been given to the ill, shut-ins and breaved. The schoolchildren were remembered at Christmas and with their picnics. Through the years, the Institute took advantage of the courses offered by the Department of Economics in preparing and preserving foods, home decoration, sewing, Parliamentary procedures, cultural activities, and making of hats and gloves.
Money was raised by quilting and selling quilts, holding card parties, dances, food sales, teas and garden parties. Contributions were made to the Wallacetown Fair Board and Shedden Fair board and displays were produced.
During the war years, a great deal of work was done is cooperation with the Dutton Red Cross. Socks, sweaters and scarves were sewn and sent overseas in comfort packages.
The branch assisted with the TB survey at the well-baby clinic in Shedden.
They have made donations to the Salvation Army, the St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital, the Bobier Home, Elgin Manor and the Cancer Society. Food and clohting have been given to newcomers and needy families.
The branch has sent delegates to conventions and conferences in agriculture, historical research and program planning. It has volunteered at the Wallacetown Centennial Fair and at the 1960 International Plowing Match in Springfield, as well as events run by the Elgin County Museum.
The Iona Station Women's Institute was disbanded in 1991, likely due to decreased membership.