Thursley Women's Institute

The Thursley Women’s Institute (WI) was founded in 1915 and by the mid-twentieth century a well-established and active organisation within the village. By 1965, the Institute had reached its Jubilee year, marking fifty years of continuous activity.

The WI provided a structured social and educational framework for women in Thursley, offering regular meetings, lectures and practical demonstrations that reflected both national WI priorities and local interests. As recorded in Thursley Today, 1965, the Institute played a significant role in village life, particularly through its support of communal facilities and its contribution to social cohesion. The WI was closely associated with the Village Hall and other shared spaces, and its members were actively involved in organising events and preserving a sense of continuity within the community. Through these activities, the Thursley Women’s Institute became an enduring presence in the village, balancing social engagement with a growing awareness of local history and identity.

Thursley Women's Instutute, undated.

Womens' Insitute at Cosford House in mid 1950's

Women's Institute Play

Womens' Insitute prize winners

Cover of a book that was compiled through the efforts of the Thursley Women’s Institute to commemorate their Jubilee Year, 1965. See separate entry.