The fascinating subject of Denman College, home of the WI, was the talk by Priscilla Gray, Wiltshire Federation archivist at the April meeting.
Denman College is a residential adult education college centred on Marcham Park in Oxfordshire. It was founded by the NFWI in 1948 although the roots of the idea were born in 1943 and the resolution passed in 1946.
This beautiful building and grounds, together with two cottages, was purchased for £16,000. This great establishment was named after Lady Denman, the first chairwoman of the WI federation.
Today, students attending Denman do not have to be members of the WI and accepts both male and female learners. Residential courses last between 1 and 4 nights, although non- residential courses are also offered. Course subject areas include the arts, crafts, music, history, sport and technology. It is also the home of the WI cookery school.
Priscilla explained that each bedroom was sponsored by a federation and over the years, with growth, things have obviously changed. The library is now a bar and staff are employed to look after you in the same way as a first- class hotel.
Member Paula Carr amused the audience with the story of her stay there with a Fawlty Towers Dining Experience with a ‘Basil, Sybil and Manuel’ performing as their hosts during a delicious meal.
Eunice Stride recounted her first stay as being particularly memorable as in a choir, they were taken to perform the Messiah at an Oxford College.
Others remembered the courses they too had attended. Helen made fascinators for her daughter’s wedding. Maureen learned to belly dance. Alison made a winning chutney and learned the ukulele and Carol took a friend bowling.
Our speakers were thanked with applause and members seemed very enthusiastic at trying a course for themselves. Next month’s meeting is a topical discussion and supper on May 11th.
Liz Lee
