Ladies Groups

Ladies Aid Society was established on October 14 1914 at Mrs. Roseborough's home (above the hardware store). This group was formed to help raise funds to furnish the new church and to represent the ladies' opinions in church affairs. Organizing to voice their opinions was a relevant action when we remember that women at that time did not have the right to vote in elections or be involved in public business decisions. In 1962 the organization became the UCW (United Church Women). Fundraising continued to be the focus - both for local events and for international charities. Community receptions, funerals luncheons, anniversaries, pot luck suppers, catering farm sales, Sport's Day involvement, garage and bake sales to name a number of the activities undertaken.
  • Some of the first items fundraised for were choir chairs and an organ for the church (that was still under construction). That year $315.95 was raised and $315.85 expended. The organ was housed in the hardware store for several weeks so the choir could practice prior to the first service in the new building.
  • In 1917 the group arranged the festivities to mark the grand opening for the Rose store. An oyster supper followed by entertainment that must have got a little out of hand as the ladies agreed to pay for some damage to Alex Cain's piano.
  • 1981 once again focused on furnishings for a new building. The UCW was proud to provide the funds to purchase the carpet - over $4800 was raised.

Homemakers Club  in Gray began in 1915. The organization motto was "For Home and Country" - very appropriate as World War I was in progress. Early fundraising and projects were devoted to wartime efforts - sewing, knitting, food parcels. Activities included home cooking (offered for sale at the Greer and Courneya Stores), plays, tag days (flea markets I think) and hosting refreshment booths at local events. The group welcomed all women (there was no church affiliation) so was able to include anyone who wished to join. The beginnings of the organization were at a time when women weren't allowed to vote or own property. The group allowed them an opportunity to organize and manage initiatives for the improvement of rural lives and their community.
Fundraising continued over the years with many local projects and charity groups receiving funds. In 1971 Homemaker's Club joined the Women's Institute organization. With regrets the group was disbanded in 1974.
Some of their projects included;
  • A 'rest room' was set up on the main floor of the Gray Grain Growers hall. The Homemakers provided furnishings and arranged for library books to be available - an exchange with Milestone. Reading by kerosene lamp was an evening pastime for adults and children.
  • The 'first' Thanksgiving Fowl Supper was hosted by the Homemakers in 1922.
  • The new Gray School became a recipient of the club's efforts. Purchases included a basketball, pictures of the King and Queen and prizes for an essay contest.
  • In 1923 the Homemakers purchased the land for the cemetery from Bill Greenslade - $150. They also paid for the upkeep, including fencing and tree planting.
  • Once the new rink was built in 1926 funds were directed there for several years.
  • The Gray Memorial Hall also received many furnishings (chairs, dishes, drapes) from the club.
​The information that follows was gathered by Mrs. W. (Lorinda) Boesch, Mrs. J. (Alma) Sparling, Mrs. F.W. Van de Kamp and Mrs. Marj Steve in the early 1960's. Worth reading - and some photos too. Still in progress...more membership lists will follow.​​
charter and life members
​​Life Members
Mrs. F.B. Lewis
Mrs. M. Selig
 
Charter Members
Mrs. M.E. Beattie
Mrs. Bilderback
Mrs. L. Bratt
​Mrs. A. Bueche
Mrs. J.P. Boesch (Dot Lafoy)
Mrs. J.A. Burwell
Mrs. A. W. Cain
Mrs. W. Dunning
Mrs. W. Eichenberger
Mrs. D.B. English
Mrs. F. Gibbons
Mrs. M. Kalina
Mrs. T. Lafoy
Mrs. F.B. Lewis
Mrs. W. Martin
Mrs. B. Moats
Mrs. Roseborough
Mrs. A.E. Staton
Mrs. Zimmer
​Pioneers
by Margaret F. Beattie
(a charter member and wife of Gray's first post-master)
 
We oft recall when first we came west
That half of the hardships we never had guessed.
Facing this new world with faith alone,
We dared to venture to this vast unknown.
With our minds made up to do our best
Of cold and loneliness, we made a jest,
But perhaps the first thing to make us proud,
Was the first long furrows which we plowed.
And as we plodded on through the years
We gained the name of “Pioneers”.
 
Although the acres were broad and bare
We found contentment and happiness there.
No soft wheeled cars went past our door
No aeroplane flew over with a roar.
But we rather admired the old ox cart
Which blazed the trail for more modern art.
Organization
Homemakers Clubs of Saskatchewan was an official organization under the direction of the University of Saskatchewan as of January 31, 1911. The local clubs were intended to provide rural women with companionship and the opportunity to carry out community service. The Gray Homemakers Club was formed on February 15, 1915 when Mrs. Thomas (from the U of S), addressed a gathering of about 40 ladies at Gray Methodist Church.
Mrs. F.B. Lewis was elected President by a large majority, Mrs. W. Eichenberger Vice-President and Miss A. Helstrom (later Mrs. E. Moats) Secretary.

Directors; Mrs. D. B. English, Mrs. W. Greer and Mrs. W. Dunning
Membership Committee; Mrs. A. Cain, Miss Dot Lafoy (later Mrs. J. Boesch), Miss Tilla Staton (later Mrs. J. Burwell), Miss Jean Beattie (later Mrs. F. Martin) and Miss Icle English (later Mrs. C. Gillis)
Auditors; Mrs. Bedford and Mrs. Dobson
Program Committee; Miss M. English (later Mrs. (Dr.) Tyerman), Mrs. Owens, Miss Kate Lafoy (later Mrs. T. Peters) and Mrs. P. Jasper
Club Reporter; Mrs. A. Bueche
1915
The first meeting of the Homemaker’s Club of Gray was held at the home of Mrs. W. Eichenberger on February 25. At the time of the organization of the Gray Homemaker’s Club the first World Ware was going on. Most of the work that was done was in aide of the soldiers, the Red Cross and the starving Belgians. Quite a bit was done in co-operation with the school trustees to beautifying the school grounds and school house. In July the first Homemaker’s picnic was held at the home of Mrs. Beattie. A very enjoyable time was spent playing tennis and baseball. The feature of the afternoon being the ladies baseball game. At this time $100.00 was spent to buy two new hospital beds. The money was sent to Saskatoon. A committee was also established to raise money for the Methodist Church in Gray. The ladies were asked to contribute a display to the Regina Exhibition. A display was set up for which the ladies received 4th Prize.​
​Mrs. T.B. Ashbaugh
Mrs. J.A. Bedford
Mrs. J. Beattie
Miss Jean Beattie (m P. Martin)
Mrs. A Bratt (m A. Rogers)
Mrs. J. Bueche
Mrs. A. Cain
Miss J. Cross
Mrs. R. Dobson
Mrs. W. Dunning
Mrs. W. Eichengerger
Mrs. D.B. English
​Mrs. F. Gibbons (m C. Blaney)
​Mrs. W. Greer
Mrs. A Helstrom (Secretary)
Mrs. F. Hoover
Mrs. P. Jasper
Mrs. M. Kalina
Miss D. Lafoy (m J. Boesch)
Mrs. J. Lafoy
Mrs. T. Lafoy
Mrs. F.B. Lewis (President)
Mrs. G. Long
1916
​1916 was a busy year for the Homemakers as money was still needed for the soldiers, the Red Cross and the starving Belgians, better known as the Peter Pan Organization. Christmas boxes were packed and sent to the soldiers. A play was sponsored for the Young People. Money was also raised to pay the minister’s salary. The Homemakers were again asked to contribute to an exhibit at the Regina Exhibition. This year they fared a bit better and managed to win 1st Prize. A petition was sent in to the Grand Railway in order that better train service should be gotten on this line. In October we were honoured by a visit from the Director of Women’s service at the University, Miss DeLury. Mrs. G. Long and Mrs. W. Greer were sent as our official delegates to the convention in Saskatoon.​
Mrs. T. Ashbaugh
Mrs. G. Axford
Mrs. P. Axford
Mrs. Beattie
Mrs. Bedford
Mrs. A. Bristol
Mrs. A. Bueche (Secretary)
Mrs. D. Clark
Mrs. M. Clark
Mrs. Conrow
Mrs. Courneya
Mrs. Dunn
Mrs. Dunning
Mrs. W. Eichenberger
Mrs. English
Mrs. F. Gibbons
Mrs. W. Greer
Mrs. Harrison
Mrs. E. Helstrom
​Mrs. Hogg
Mrs. Hoover
Mrs. Howlett
Mrs. A. Howlett
Mrs. G. Howlett
Mrs. P. Jasper
Mrs. F. Lewis (President)
Mrs. C. Long
Mrs. W. Martin
Mrs. Pfeffer
Mrs. J. Pope
Mrs. J. Richards
Mrs. F. Roche
Mrs. Ruthledge
Mrs. E. Smith
Mrs. A. Staton
Mrs. R. Zimmer
Mrs. W. Zimmer 
1917
​This year the ladies voted to continue on with their war efforts for the soldiers, the Red Cross and the starving Belgians (reference Commission for Relief in Belgium - CRB). Numerous box socials and pie socials were put on for entertainment and to raise money for worthy causes. With the exception of paying a small loan on their library, all the money was turned in for these purposed. This year the ladies gave up their lunches at the meetings and the money that was saved in this way was turned over to the Red Cross.​
​Mrs. T. Ashbaugh
Mrs. A. Bristol
Mrs. A. Bueche
Mrs. Cain
Mrs. M.F. Clark
Mrs. I. Dunn (Secretary)
Mrs. W. Dunning
Mrs. F. English
Mrs. Felt
Mrs. C. Gingrich (Co-President)
Mrs. W. Greer
Mrs. E. Courneya
​Mrs. W. Eichenberger
Mrs. Fitzpatrick
Mrs. E. Hoover
Mrs. Ed Howlett
Mrs. G. Howlett
Mrs. F.B. Lewis (Co-President)
Mrs. G. Long
Mrs. W. Martin
Mrs. J. Pope
Mrs. A.E. Staton
Mrs. W. Zimmer
1918
​This was indeed a very successful year for the Homemakers Club. Christmas boxes and chain letters were sent to the soldiers. An auction sale was held to raise money for the Red Cross. $800 was realized at this sale. Articles auctioned were horses, furniture, machinery, etc. A free-will offering was also taken up in aid of the starving Belgians (due to German occupation). Clothing was donated to the Salvation Army. Mrs. J. Pope and Mrs. M. Clark were our delegates to the convention in Saskatoon. During these years the Homemakers closed their meetings by singing ‘God Bless our Splendid Men’.
1919
​The ladies continued their sewing for the Red Cross. Flannelette was sent out free of charge and this was made into clothing for homeless wives and children in France. The money was raised to pay the minister’s salary and to pay the debt owed on the church. The library of books which the Homemakers had collected in 1915 were turned over to the Grain Growers. Socials were arranged to honour all the returned boys from the war. A French boy was adopted by the club and money was raised to pay for his support and education. This year the ladies held supper meetings to which the men were invited and the meeting followed. Mrs. F. Roche and Miss Grace Howlett were our convention delegates to Saskatoon.
1920
​This year the ladies decided to make more of a social time at their meetings. A large supper was planned for each meeting to which the men and children were all invited. The meeting was held after the supper. Since this was the only community organization, the ladies looked after all social events and remembered all special occasions. A pound social was put on in favour of the local minister. Mrs. W. Dunning and Mrs. A. Bueche were our convention delegates. The ladies also served at the local Grain Growers Sports Day. The following birth announcements were made and the people remembered with small gifts. Sons to Mrs. A. Moats, Mrs. T. Ashbaugh and Mrs. J. Boesch, a daughter to Mrs. C. Lafoy.
1921
​The supper meetings were continued this year. Clothes and canned fruit were packed and sent to the Children’s Shelter in Regina. Miss May from the University paid a visit to give a two-day course on ‘Dressmaking and Fitting’. Mrs. G. Long contributed a very interesting paper at one of the meetings, the topic being ‘Mothers of Today’. She said if mothers would live as they should, we would not be ashamed of the coming generation. The Good Cheer Committee reported baby parcels were sent to Mrs. W. Lafoy, Mrs. H. Ohrt, Mrs. F. Ford, Mrs. Peters, Mrs. Swan, Mrs. Eichenberger Mrs. H. Hoover, Mrs. W. Martin, Mrs. R. Henry, Mrs. Williamson, Mrs. Olson. Mrs. Hoover and Miss G. Fisk were the convention delegates.
1922
​This year was mostly a social season for the club. A Mother Goose social was planned with Mrs. W. Lafoy in charge. A wedding shower was held for Mrs. C. Leopold (nee Nina Fisk). The club was told of plans for a district convention - Mrs. C. Long was to assist from the Gray club. Lang ladies also wished to form a club and the Gray ladies were asked to assist them in forming their club. A box of fruit and clothing was again sent to the Children’s Shelter. A fowl supper, the first one held in the community was held during the Thanksgiving weekend. Good Cheer Committee reported baby gifts were sent to Mrs. Ranson, Mrs. M. Powell, Mrs. C. Lafoy, Mrs. J. Burwell and a wreath was sent to the C. Munroe’s funeral.
The Club began supporting the new school - purchasing a basketball for the junior room and pictures of the King and Queen. There were prizes given for essay contests. The topics were 'Why the Homemakers Club?" for Grade VII and "The Flag" for Grades I-VI. Russell Derrough received 1st Prize ($3) and Lloyd Fisk second ($1). Junior prizes were Earl Marty ($3) and Eloise Lafoy ($1).
1923
​The ladies again sent a parcel of clothing and food to the Children’s Shelter. They served at ball games and at the school fair. Miss Garnet Fisk was sent as a delegate to the girl’s camp in Saskatoon. A shower was held for Mrs. Walter Martin. The Good Cheer Committee reported the following birth announcements; Mrs. Ranson, Mrs. Innes, Mrs. Eichenberger. Flowers were sent to the following funerals; Doris Park, Nina (Fisk) Leopold, Berge Murphy, Baby Williamson and Lavon Ashford. Mrs. Edna Clark was our convention delegate to Saskatoon and Mrs. F.B. Lewis our delegate to the District Convention. Mr. F. B. Lewis our Member of Parliament, gave us a talk on Laws of Municipality and our Provincial Government. This is the year they started a Bridal Fund - each member contributing $0.30.
1924
​This year money was raised to pay Mr. Greenslade $150 for the land for the cemetery. Clothing and canned goods were collected again for the shelter and for the dried-out districts. A proposal was sent in regarding the Homemakers not being in favour of the sale of liquor in licensed premises. Well baby clinics were planned. Showers were held for the new brides – Mrs. Tom Terry (nee Ruth Fisk), Mrs. J. Burwell, Mrs. C. Burwell. In preference to flowers, a box of baby clothing was made up as gifts to be given each new baby. The following baby announcements were reported; Mrs. Wright, Mrs. Powell, Mrs. Olson, Mrs. Ford. Mrs. Henry and Mrs. Gorman. Flowers were sent to baby Ohrt’s funeral. Mrs. Martin and Mrs. Eichenberger were our delegates to the convention in Saskatoon.
1925
This year the club took on the responsibility of paying for the cemetery land. $150 was paid out for the land. The land was surveyed and the deed was obtained for it. The club also looked after erecting a fence around it. A social was held to collect fruit for the shelter and the needy. A travelling library was also gotten for community use. The Good Cheer Committee reported babies born to Mrs. Judiesch, Mrs. Muller and Mrs. Pope. Flowers were sent to Baby Pope’s funeral. A wedding gift was given to Mrs. Wes Staton. Mrs. McPherson was sent as our delegate to Saskatoon.
1926
​The club raised the money this year to pay for the erecting of the Gray Rink. The trees were planted around the cemetery. Mrs. Selig was sent as our convention delegate to Saskatoon.
1927
​In 1927 fruit and cut flowers were sent to ill members in the hospital. Lap boards and a table were bought to be used at the meetings. A St. Patrick’s dinner was served to the members and their families. Report of the Provincial Convention was given by Mrs. Williamson. Money was raised serving lunches at the rink on Saturday nights and special collections. It was sent to Christmas Cheer Fund and canned fruit was sent to the Children’s Shelter. Mrs. English reported on the District Convention at Rouleau.
1928
​In 1928 the sick were remembered with; chocolates, Valentines, games, cut flowers, books and other gifts. Mrs. Moats was delegate to the Provincial Convention and Mrs. Hughes was delegate to the District Convention. A travelling library was sponsored by the club and set up in an office with a volunteer librarian. Money was raised serving lunches at hockey games and at a clinic. A shower for the Children’s Shelter was sponsored.
1929
​Fruit, toys, plants and flowers were sent to the sick members or their families. Mrs. J. Burwell was delegate to the convention held in Saskatoon. District Convention was held in Gray on June 13th. Baby clinics were sponsored, also tuberculosis (TB) testing of cattle, fretwork (a type of woodwork) demonstrations for boys and classes in leather-work for girls. Donations were given to the Christmas Cheer Fund and canned fruit to the Children’s Shelter. Money was raised by putting on a program to help the needy in the dried-out areas.
1930
​Mrs. Helstrom and Mrs. Cain were delegates to the Provincial Convention and Mrs. Bueche was delegate to the District Convention in Regina. Baby clinics, cattle testing, poultry culling and a library were sponsored. Donations of canned fruit were taken to the Children’s Shelter and a special collection donated to the Christmas Cheer Fund.
1931
​The delegate to the District and Provincial Conventions were Mrs. Kalina and Mrs. Dunning. During the year the club entertained the Wilcox club, sponsored an essay contest – presenting the winners at an evening affair - sponsored by poultry culling and relief was given the needy. Sunday School Christmas treats bought and was responsible for the library. Mrs. Oxner addressed a meeting and talked on Interior Decorating.
1932
​The sick were remembered with flowers, cards, books and toys. Mrs. Bueche was delegate to the District Convention but no delegate was sent to the Provincial Convention but the members attended a meeting at Wilcox and heard their delegate’s reports. The Gray Club helped organize a new club at Kronau. Donations of fruit were collected and give to the needy also clothes for children and blankets bought and given to the needy in the community.
1933
​The sick were remembered with boxes of gifts and cards. No delegate was sent to the Provincial Convention but Miss Jasper read a report on this. Shower for the Red Cross was held.
1934
​Five dollars was donated to help pay for trees at the cemetery. Flowers and other gifts were sent to the sick. A baby clinic was sponsored. Miss Jasper was delegate to the Provincial Convention. Christmas gifts were collected for the Children’s Shelter. Five dollars was sent to the Christmas Cheer Fund and Christmas donations given to the Federation of the Blind.
1935
​Mrs. Montgomerie was the delegate to the Provincial Convention at Saskatoon and Mrs. Kime was delegate to the District Convention. During the year a program was put on honouring the Grandmothers. They entertained the Homemaker’s Clubs from Yankee Ridge district and Bechard. Flowers and other gifts were sent to the sick.
1936
​Mrs. English was the delegate to the District Convention at Wilcox. Mrs. Giffin was delegate to the Provincial Convention. A picnic was held at Boggy Creed to celebrate the club’s 21st Anniversary. Flowers were sent to the sick.
1937
​Mrs. Kime was the delegate to the Provincial Convention. Five dollars was sent to Saskatchewan Blind Welfare. Donations were given to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). The District Convention was held in Gray.
1938
​Garden seeds were sent to the Hawarden Club in the dried-out areas. Mrs. Lloyd was delegate to the District Convention and Mrs. Ashford to the Provincial Convention. Two dollars was sent to the tuberculosis (TB) League.
1939
​The delegates to the District Convention in Regina were Mrs. Montgomerie and Mrs. Muller. Mrs. McGillivray was the delegate to the Provincial Convention. A picnic and carnival were held in the rink. Donations were sent to the Blind Institute, the Tuberculosis (TB) League and the Red Cross.
1940
​Mrs. Gillis was delegate to the District Convention at Francis and Mrs. Ohrt was delegate to the Provincial Convention. In May the club celebrated their 25th Anniversary with 80 ladies present, 15 charter members present (Mrs. L. Bratt, Mrs. M.E. Beattie, Mrs. Cain, Mrs. J.P. Boesch, Mrs. Martin, Mrs. English, Mrs. Moats, Mrs. Burwell, Mrs. T. Lafoy, Mrs. Kalina, Mrs. F.B. Lewis, Mrs. Gibbons, Mrs. Dunning) and 5 members corresponded (Mrs. Eichenberger, Mrs. Roseborough, Mrs. Zimmer, Mrs. Echart and Mrs. Bilderback). 14 members were deceased, a memorial service was held in their honour.
The program included two twin duets (Eileen and Doreen Crookes and Elsie and Betty Bingaman), a piano solo by Eleanor Staton and readings by Lyla Bratt and June Ford.
Forty dollars was given to the Red Cross to help buy a blood refrigerator. Other donations were given to the blind and the Tuberculosis (TB) League.
1941
​Mrs. English donated a quilt which was raffled at the bonspiel - the proceeds went to the Red Cross Committee. Mrs. Collins and Mrs. Douglas were delegates to district convention. About 20 other members attended. Mrs. Barner and Mrs. McLean from Regina came out and had addresses and displays of Saskatchewan writers, pieces of sculpture made from Saskatchewan clay, oil paintings, wood carving, tooled leather, rugs and quilts.
1942
​The ladies took the task of looking after the needy families in dried-out districts and also to those at home. They helped in all the war efforts (Red Cross, Milk for Britain, Tuberculosis TB League). They belonged to the Million Member Club. Mrs. H. Lafoy and Mrs. N. Lafoy were delegates at the District Convention. Mrs. Collins a delegate at the Provincial Convention.
1943
​The Homemakers made an Armed Forces record book. They had Miss Emmie Oddie come and speak on Junior Red Cross. The club turned over the books that were suitable in their library to the IODE (Imperial Order Daughters of the Empire) and some to the Junior Red Cross. They gave to the Russian Relief, Chinese Relief, Red Cross, Wartime Fund and Blind, also to the church board. Delegates to the District Convention were Mrs. L. Bratt and Mrs. J. Lafoy.
1944
​The ladies fixed cupboards at the rink and bought dishes for same. They had a guest speaker who spoke on her native land, Holland. They gave help to the Kamsack Relief, Red Cross, Special Wartime Fund, Blind, Tuberculosis (TB) League and church board. Miss Jasper and Mrs. Bueche were delegates to the District Convention.
1945
​This year the Homemakers celebrated their 30th Anniversary. They corresponded with another club in Argentina. One life membership was given. They gave donations to the Blind, Red Cross and Wartime Funds. Mrs. W. Lafoy and Mrs. L. Gillis were delegates to the convention.
1946
​A girl’s Homecraft Club was organized and a vegetable shower was held and proceeds went ot the Children’s Shelter in Regina. A life membership was given. A fall fair was held also. They helped support the Blind, Cancer, Tuberculosis (TB) League and Navy League. Mrs. L. Bratt and Mrs. Collins were delegates to the convention.
1947
​A jamboree was held in June and a fair later on in the year to which the ladies of Riceton and Estlin were invited. This year the Homemakers became members of the Country Women of the World. They gave to the hall, church, Red Cross, cancer and the Community Chest. Mrs. E. Lafoy and Mrs. D. Ford were delegates to the convention.
1948
​In June the club served at the Mason’s supper for their 25th Anniversary and in August the club had an annual fair. Each member gave $0.50 toward buying cups and saucers for use at the church and hall. They sent food to the Children’s Shelter in Regina. In November they had a guest speaker from Regina and she spoke on Parent-School child problems. They gave to the rink, Community Chest, CARE (Cooperative for American Remittances to Europe which has became Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere), Tuberculosis (TB) League, cancer, blind and Save the Children Fund. Mrs. M. Aitken and Mrs. Doc Lafoy were delegates to the convention at Riceton.
1949
An entry into the Tweedsmuir Competition was entered. Messers Jack and Brock Burwell won the Marquis Wheat Prize. A Fair was held in August and a Hard Time Dance in September. Donations were given to the Red Cross, blind, Tuberculosis (TB) League, Community Chest, cancer, CARE ((Cooperative for American Remittances to Europe) and the church. Mrs. Muller and Dorothy Hannon were delegates to the District Convention and Mrs. W. Lafoy was delegate to the Provincial Convention.
1950
​The Club sent $25.00 to the Manitoba Flood Relief Fund. They helped the disabled civilians in Moose Jaw. They also planned the ‘at-home’ celebration of Mr. and Mrs. W. Gillis on the 60th Anniversary. Gave donations to cancer, Tuberculosis (TB) League, blind, Community Chest, Save the Children fund and the church. Mrs. L. Ford went to the District Convention and Mrs. Bingaman to the Provincial Convention.
A note in 'the ties that bind' suggests there was a 'standing' motion to contribute annually to the CNIB, TB League, CARE and cancer research.
1951
​The ladies were busy this year. They had a fruit and vegetable shower for Embury House and sent two months collection there. Money was spent to buy chairs for the Memorial Hall. They also sent money to the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon, Tuberculosis (TB) League and the Holland Relief Fund. They canvassed for Cancer, Arthritis and Rheumatism Society and Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). Mrs. Crookes RN gave a demonstration of First Aid. All the ladies helped to make a child’s quilt and collected gifts to send to the children at Embury House for Christmas. To raise money, they sold popcorn at the movies. Mrs. L. Ford went to the Provincial Convention at Pense.
1952
​Mrs. F. Van de Kamp was the delegate to the District Convention. Mrs. W. Boesch and Mrs. W. Lafoy were delegates to the Provincial Convention. Money was sent to the Crippled Children’s Fund, CNIB and $200 to the Memorial Hall. The disbanded Homemaker’s Club at Estlin was invited to attend and join the Gray Homemaker’s Club. Christmas gift were sent to Embury House again and a bake sale with candy and popcorn was held with the proceeds going to the Arthritis and Rheumatism Society. Mr. and Mrs. J. Burwell were delegates who attended the Cancer Society Conference.
1953
​This year the ladies sent money to many worthy causes; Crippled Children’s Fund, TB League, Canadian Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, CARE, March of Dimes, story books for the school and other school equipment. There was a campaign for Cancer and a bake sale for the CNIB. Mrs. E. Lewis was the delegate to the convention and Mrs. H. Lewis the delegate to the Electrification Conference in Saskatoon. The Homemaker’s Club was very proud that Mrs. J. Frei’s recipe was accepted for the new Homemaker’s Cookbook. Each member received and dressed one doll to send to the Weyburn Hospital for Christmas.
1954
​Mrs. R. Houghtaling and Mrs. D. Ford were our delegates to the District Convention. Mrs. W. Lafoy was delegate to the Provincial Convention. Money was sent to Mental Health, Crippled Children’s Fund, CARE and TB League. Proceeds from a bake sale were sent to the CNIB. Mrs. H. Lewis was delegate to the Electrification Conference in Saskatoon. Each member again received and dressed a doll to be sent to the Weyburn Hospital at Christmas.
1955
​This is the year the Gray Homemakers celebrated their 40th Anniversary, playing host to the District Convention. Mrs. W. Lafoy was the convener. This was the second largest district convention held to date with 138 delegates present. Roses were presented to the fifteen  charter members in attendance. Mrs. G. Boesch and Mrs. J. Burwell were the delegates. Mrs. J. Ford was the delegate to the Provincial Convention.
Money this year was sent to the Crippled Children’s Fund, Mental Health, Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, CARE and TB League. Clothing and other articles were gathered for the Canadian Save the Children Fund, a $0.50 miscellaneous sale held for UNESCO, cosmetic bags were made for Mental Health and a Dutch auction held to sell the baby quilt made by Mary Aitken. Mrs. G. Boesch and Mrs. W Boesch attended the Cancer Society Conference.
1956
​This year the Homemakers served at the Wheat Pool Convention. Mrs. Drex Ford was our delegate to the District Convention at Lumsden. Financial aid was sent to many worthy causes; Foundation Fund, CARE, cancer, CNIB, TB League, Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, March of Dimes, mental health and Hungarian Relief Fund.
1957
​Mrs. Leta Gillis and Mrs. W. Boesch were delegates to the District Convention at Grand Coulee. Mrs. K. Gillis and Mrs. P. Lewis were delegates to the Provincial Convention. A bake sale was held with proceeds being divided between CNIB and Arthritis and Rheumatism Society. Money was also sent to cancer and CSRE.
The ladies met at the hall for Mrs. Emmie Oddie’s report on the FWIC (Federated Women's Institutes of Canada) Convention at Ottawa followed by lunch.
1958
​A Senior Citizen’s Tea was held in August with 13 honoured guests present. Gifts were presented to the guests and Mrs. W. Boesch was the master of ceremonies. Mrs. P. Helstrom and Mrs. H. Lewis were delegates to the Provincial Convention and Mrs. E. Lewis and Mrs. J. Ford were delegates to the District Convention. Clothing was sent to the Unitarian Service and money was sent to the March of Dimes, CNIB, CARE, TB League and mental health.
1959
​Money this year was sent to cancer and CARE and a bake sale was held.
1960
​Another active year for the Homemakers. Two rummage sales were successfully held in Regina to raise money for the club. Money was sent to CNIB, CARE, Adelaide Hoodless Foundation and West Indies Extension Services. Mrs. F. Axford was delegate to the Provincial Convention and Mrs. L. Moats and Mrs. P. Helsrom were delegates to the District Convention. A two-week Vocational Training School was held in October with such topics that included: Preparing Foods, Upholstering and Crafts, Sewing and Freezing Foods. An Achievement Day Tea was held the last day of the course and 65 guests signed the register.
1961-63
​1961 and 1962 – no notes
1963
Varied topics this year; studying the guidance and education of our young people, questions regarding coloured margarine. Edythe Bratt and Dorothy Carnegie attended a Home Economics convener course held at Pense. Donations were made to TB League and CNIB.
- no membership information found
1964
​Resolution to see if we should change our name from Homemakers Club to Women’s Institute.
Our annual meeting was conducted in the new official method of installation for Homemakers Clubs by VP Margaret Lewis. Helped Milestone with Blood Donor Clinic. We assisted the Gray UCW (United Church Women) in the cost of converting the stoves in the Memorial Hall to gas. A beautiful display of needlework, crochet, pictures and hand-painted china. Helped to sponsor a student to the United Nations. Local girl makes good “Diane Thompson took first prize” in three competition as well as the top marks in the Senior Open Class Singing. Neta Lafoy received top marks in Junior Piano. Sheila Moats a mark of 82 in piano. Invitation to go to Plentywood Montana to their Annual International Tea – no one travelled. We took a tour of the new power building. Lila Bratt spoke to us on her social welfare work in the Northwest Territories.
​Pauline Lewis (President)
Margaret Rouse (Secretary)
Pauline Roh (Treasurer)
Margaret Lewis (Vice-President)
- no membership records
1965
​Gray Homemakers turned 50-years old on February 15. A package of haste-e-notes to be sent to each charter member. Convention in Gray with Margaret Lewis and Alma Sparling as delegates. June Ford to lead us in prayer at the luncheon and memorial service.
Local recipients; Carol Martin $10 (an essay), Dianne Thompson $200 scholarship (Kinsman award for singing), Neta Lafoy first prize for a cancer essay and $50 for piano, Carol Martin won $10 (essay The Seven Wonders of the World), Shelia Moats won a gold watch for a steer competition, Dianne Thompson won $100 (Ford of Canada Canadian Centennial performance of arts) for voice. Nelda Carnegie a silver watch for heifer competition.
Gave the dolls that were dressed representing the United Nation to the “Dundee” club. Neva Lafoy gave a talk on the Pattern in Arithmetic (the new math).
​Pauline Lewis (President)
Margaret Rouse (Secretary)
Libby Lafoy (Treasurer)
- no membership records
1966
​Plans to put a sewing machine in Indian Homes to be our project for the year – bought by Mrs. Del Lafoy.
Local recipients; Chris Carnegie and Elaine Moats were winners of 4H oratorical contest, Dianne Thompson had a recital in Darke Hall and many friends attended. Dianne Thompson, Rosemary Oddie and Bonnie Dunbar would be in two one-act operas.
Gift to be bought for John and Neva Lafoy who lost their home by fire.
An article on Permanent Press materials was found very informative. Story of ‘date-growing’ in California. Mary Salamanchuk gave a new trunk to the Homemakers for storing the tablecloths. A social was held with Peter Boesch and Katherine Moats as guest speakers. Neva Lafoy gave a talk in ‘Preparing for tomorrow’ learning for children is the 4R system – read, repeat, write and remember.
​Pauline Lewis (President)
Margaret Rouse (Secretary)
Libby Lafoy (Treasurer)
- no membership records
1967
​June Ford attended the District Convention in Pense.
Sharon Frei spoke on their trip to Expo - Man and His World – very interesting.
Local recipients; Dianne Thompson was presented a Gold Medal for proficiency by Howard Leyton-Brown.
The swimming lessons at Milestone’s portable pool provide quite successful. A ‘Foodhandlers Institute’ was held with Mr. Albert Dube, Public Health Inspector as guest speaker.
The introduction of ‘Blow-up Furniture’. An article ‘drugs and you’ distributed.
Pauline Lewis (President)
Margaret Rouse (Secretary)
Pauline Roh (Treasurer)
Libby Lafoy (Vice-President)
- no membership records
1968
​The District Convention was held in Grand Coulee with Tregarva helping. Theme ‘Differences can enrich our lives’.
Three senior citizens honoured on their birthdays; Mr. and Mrs. Jim Proctor and Mrs. D.L. Carter.
A skit ‘Let’s Eat’ was enjoyed. A survey of Indian Education given. Our school system and that of Wales were compared. A Red Cross certificate had been presented to the Gray district for the collection of the objective set for Gray. Bill Carnegie would take the books collected for Inuvik as far as Cold Lake. A ‘cup and saucer’ motion to be given to ‘anyone’ leaving the community. Dorothy Carnegie showed how to make new coffee table tops.
Edythe Bratt (President)
Margaret Rouse (Secretary)
Sharon Frei (Treasurer)
Neva Lafoy (Vice-President)
- no membership records
1969
​District Convention held at Moose Jaw. Theme ‘Information is the fuel behind all reasoning’. Shirley Boesch made the child’s apron for the convention. A potluck supper held at the hall (Mr. Colquhoun acted as Master of Ceremonies) featuring Jim Beamish PFRA (Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration) showing slides of his trip to China and India. A public health workshop was held with Mr. Taylor (Public Health Inspector) from Grenfell and Miss Potts (Nutritionist) from Regina. Homemakers Clubs won four out of five awards in the Saskatchewan Safety competition sponsored by Shell Canada.
​Edythe Bratt (President)
Margaret Rouse (Secretary)
Sharon Frei (Treasurer)
Neva Lafoy (Vice-President)
- no membership records
1970-74
​No further annual summaries were discovered. Homemakers Clubs joined the Women’s Institute organization in 1971 and the Gray club disbanded in 1974.
Hamlet of Gray has present day info.