Graduate Students

Parker, A. - M.A

"Making the Most of What We Have": The Women's Institutes of Huron County, Ontario, During the Inter-War Peiod - Dr. Douglas McCalla

         This thesis is an investigation of four Huron County branches of the Women's Institute between 1919 and 1939- Belgrave, Blyth, Clinton and Wingham. Huron County Women's Institute branches thrived during the inter-war period. While still upholding contemporary conceptions of appropriate behaviour for their sex, race and class, Women's Institute members used the organization to channel their energy, skills and humanitarian endeavours. By organizing and operating branches, many Huron County women built a sphere for themselves which encouraged their personal growth as well as the sustenance of the larger community. Members took advantage of the flexible nature of the organization to suit the uniqueness of the individuals and the communities in which they served.