Eleanor Roosevelt in focus at Auldhouse WI
The October meeting of Auldhouse Women’s Institute was held in the Alastair McCoist Complex.
President Marion Davidson welcomed members, federation president Jeanette Smith and other guests.
Business matters included a report on the WI national conference in Perth, a reminder of the federation quiz night and the CHAS lunch in Strathaven.
Members interested in next year’s national competitions will have a planning meeting later this month.
Marion then introduced Liz McIntyre who spoke about ‘Franklin’s Legs’ – the life story of Eleanor Roosevelt.
Liz began by describing her upper middle class upbringing, the loss of family members and being sent to boarding school in London where she blossomed.
She returned to New York and met and married Franklin, her fifth cousin.
She then described Mrs Roosevelt’s life with Franklin and his relations and his interest in politics.
During the First World War, they visited the European battlegrounds and after his illness she supported him and visited the projects he set up – Franklin’s Legs.
She also wrote articles and became a strong supporter of the Red Cross.
During the Second World War, she went on a world tour, supporting the Red Cross and visited RollsRoyce and Weirs in Glasgow.
After President Roosevelt’s death, Eleanor became a UN delegate helping refugees.
After tea, the competition was won by Alison Allison and the raffle was drawn and won by Linda Mullen.
Why not go along and join the group at their next meeting on Tuesday, November 6 when a guest speaker will give a talk entitled ‘Shanghai Experiences’.
New members are always welcome. Contact Marion on (01355) 242698 or Aileen (01355) 571807 for more details.