Localladies take a step back in time

In January four members of Drumbeg WI had a very interesting weekend at An Grainan Adult Education Centre near Drogheda where they had the opportunity to participate in various activities.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Mar 2014, 13:00 BST

Two members took part in oil painting classes while two spent the weekend visiting historical houses and learning about the history of the area.

It was also an opportunity to make and renew friendships with colleagues in The Irish Country Woman’s Society.

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At the monthly meeting in February members indulged in a trip down memory lane when Norman Weatherall spoke on the History of Belfast Stores.

The journey started in 1850 in High Street, going through to the fashionable residential Donegal Place.

With the help of Powerpoint the ladies viewed various forms of architecture and were reminded of family business names like Robinson Cleaver, J Robb, Liptons, Anderson and McAuley and many more.

These contrasted strongly with Smithfield Market where the most famous name was Joe Kavanagh from ‘I Buy Anything’ fame.

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It was interesting to recall the overhead cash ball system, and being addressed as Madam and Sir by shop assistants, all very different to the modern on line shopping experience.

The competition for a picture of Old Belfast was won by Rosemary Reid with Eva McAdam and Maureen Lindsay taking second and third places.

Congratulations were extended to Margaret Jordan who was third in the WI art competition

As a much respected and enthusiastic member, Hazel Ervine, was celebrating her birthday, the evening ended by expressing good wishes to her and singing ‘Happy Birthday’.