Tealing WRI (est. 1924)

At its height Tealing WRI was the most successful community group in Tealing, if levels of membership determine success - which peaked at around 120. Women of all ages attended regularly to enjoy a very varied programme of events, demonstrations and good company. Over the years, the branch competed in many categories at Forfar, bringing home the Cup on a few occasions and winning many individual categories. In 1949 the Evening Telegraph reported" on the southern fringes of the 'drome stands the home of Mrs D M Miller, who takes a keen interest in the WRI movement. Her enthusiasm is especially marked for handicraft and designing work. Tealing WRI has won the Federation Cup for baking and handicrafts this year. The WRI's wedding gift to Princess Elizabeth are tapestries, drapings and such bedroom accessories as quilts, footstools and rugs. Branches throughout Scotland are combining their most skilled needlewomen to do the work".

A lengthy poem was penned to celebrate the WRI's 50th anniversary, a few verses follow: -

It's 50 years since the rural started

A longish time to go unthwarted

When women from all walk of life

Resolve to be a better wife

It was in the year of twenty-four

That Tealing first began to soar

A band of women cleverly knew

Of interesting work which they could do

I've heard them speak of rollicking fun

With the Tealing Toppers and plays they have done

I've heard of awkward moments too

When members landed in stew

To the ladies of the committee, I've the greatest respect

The spare time given freely, no pay to collect

A word of encouragement never goes amiss

Will gladden their hearts and fill them with bliss!

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