NAPIER.

White Ribbon, Volume 32, Issue 373, 18 July 1926, Page 5

NAPIER.

OUR 41st BIRTHDAY. June ltitli.—A most enjoyable afternoon was belt! in the Y.M.C+V. Lounge, the occasion being the 41st Anniversary of our Union, combined with “White Ribbon" Day; over SO members and friends being present. Mrs Speight, President, presiding. Mrs Leask, Vice-President, guve a short resume of the earlv days of the

Union, while not a foundation menib< r c»f the Napier Union, she was one of the earliest to join in Dunedin. Mrs Paterson was the first Napier President; Mrs Bendely, now of Auckland, did yeoman work in those early days. The late Mrs Oldham, we remember with deep gratitude for her work as Kditor and Manager of the White Ribbon, which was for four years printed in Napier. During tier term of office, the Willard Hall was built and opened, and is free of debt. As far back as 1885, Mrs Troy started a Woman’s “Home.” It supplied a great need in those days, was self-supporting, and many a needy girl and homeless woman

found a home and opportunity to make a new start under Mrs Troy’s wi. e guidance. In 1890, the New Zealand Convention was held here. Mrs King presiding. Dean Hovell preside! at the Public Reception. Napier Union suffered a great loss, all their earliest records being burnt; we were unable to trace all the foundation members. Many have Passed to the Home above; they rest from their labors, but their work lives on. \mong those present wore Mrs. Martin, Mrs. Ward Lascelles and Miss Williams, old pioneers in the Work. Mrs. Martin and Mrs. Ward hascelles were decorated with the “White Star,” as foundation members. Congratulatory letters and telegrams were received from all parts of New Zealand. To Mrs. Drake and party we extend °ur warmest thanks for musical items. Miss Spencer gave a most interring talk on “Woman’s Power,” In the World. An invitation was given to join the t’nion and also an appeal for subscribers to “White Ribbon.”

Sweets and afternoon tea was provided by members of our Union. Singing of our Doxology ard

pronouncing of the Benediction brought to a close a pleasant and profitable afternoon.