This week a steadfast institution in the valley is celebrating its 90th anniversary.
The Catholic Women’s League (CWL) was nationalized in 1920 with the formation of a group in Edmonton. In 1923, the Calgary Diocese subdivisions was formed, paving the way in the same year for Drumheller to form its CWL group.
This Friday the CWL is celebrating its anniversary, and has confirmed Bishop Fred Henry will be attending, as well as five former priests who served in Drumheller. They include Father James Hagel, Father Rudy Badiola, Father Dan Stevenot, Father Wayne Poile and Father Gilles LeBlanc. Sister Elisabeth Lynch who was with the St. Angela Convent and the Ursuline Sisters is also returning.
In 1923 Mrs. W. Fulton was the first president, Mrs. H Robinson was secretary and Mrs. Frank Webber was treasurer. While they had no hall they were strong, with 25 charter members, and began fundraising. By 1931, a Junior CWL was organized and it quickly grew to 25 members.
A lot has changed in 90 years, and Olga Rowse, now 89, has seen much of that change. She is the longest standing member and has been with the St. Anthony’s CWL for 72 years. She was married in 1942 and joined right up. She said at the time that is what young women did.”
The group was very active then with many fundraising efforts including bazaars, teas and dinners. In 1952 the CWL began its catering service which became a staple fundraiser for the group.
Today the CWL is active and still hosts a number of events including the annual bring and buy.
This Friday, April 26, they will be celebrating their fruitful past. There will be a mass at 5 p.m. Following mass there will be a banquet with a silent auction. Cocktails are at 6 p.m. and dinner, catered by Bernie and the Boys, will follow. This will also be a chance to show off the newly renovated hall.
As part of the celebration they will be honouring a number of long standing members. Rowse is not alone in her service; Frances Andrews, 63 years; Helen Berlando, 61 years; Alba Bonaguro, 43 years; Anna May Cardamone, 51 years; Adeline Contenti, 66 years; Madge Contenti, 62 years; Adrienne Dart, 49 years; Geraldine Edwards, 56 years; Irene Forgo, 68 years; Maria Girardi, 57 years; Joan Harasym, 52 years (recently); Herta Merkel, 69 years; Helen Pinkus, 54 years; and Lola Yearly, 40 years, will all be honoured.
For more information or to get tickets contact the church office 403-823-2683.