Kirkmahoe SWI members mark the institute’s centenary with a special celebration

Kirkmahoe SWI members celebrated a significant milestone with a special event at the Woodlands House Hotel, marking their institute’s centenary. President Doreen Martin welcomed attendees to commemorate the 100th birthday of the institute, with special guests including Mary Burney, SWI national chairman; Mima Telfer, Dumfriesshire president, and Jane Chalmers, the Cairn Valley president. Together, they cut the celebratory cake and unveiled the impressive Kirkmahoe Parish Collage, a depiction of the Parish of Kirkmahoe that incorporated all its significant landmarks.

The collage creation was a collaborative effort by all members over the summer, with Margaret Wilson providing her expertise and workspace for the project. Doreen and Fiona Sweeney shared a brief history of the institute, recounting anecdotes gathered from old minutes. Despite challenging times, the institute made the most of their gatherings with entertaining activities like potato peeling competitions and butchering demonstrations, often ending the evenings with songs and dances before heading home.

The honour of cutting the cake fell to the youngest member, Emma Johnstone, under the watchful eyes of Jane, Mary, Doreen, and Mima. Mary Burney extended congratulations to the institute on reaching its centenary and raised a toast to the SWI and Kirkmahoe. Joan Stroud, one of the longest-serving members, recited a self-penned poem, adding a personal touch to the celebration. The event concluded with members, past and present, enjoying a delightful meal together.

The festivities at the Woodlands House Hotel brought together generations of Kirkmahoe SWI members to reflect on the institute’s rich history and accomplishments over the past century. Through shared memories and shared experiences, the celebration highlighted the enduring legacy of the institute and the strong sense of community it has fostered among its members.

Insights:
The Kirkmahoe SWI centenary celebration represents more than just a significant milestone; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of community and friendship that the institute has cultivated over a hundred years. The collaborative effort showcased in creating the Parish Collage and the nostalgic anecdotes shared underscore the bonds that have kept the members connected through the generations. Such occasions not only honour the past but also inspire future members to continue the legacy of camaraderie and support that define the SWI.