The Sir Winston Churchill Society of Edmonton

Inaugural Clementine Churchill Tea

On Sunday, March 8, we celebrated International Women’s Day with a traditional tea party. With over fifty members and friends in attendance in the Governor’s Room at the Prince of Wales Armoury, we remembered Clementine Churchill and honoured the women who have supported us and our society over the years.

Our master of ceremonies was Mrs. Elisebeth Checkel, the first female president of our society. She guided the flow and tone of the event, beginning with an overview of the evolution of the Sir Winston Churchill Society from a gentlemen-only annual mess dinner club to the inclusive philanthropic charity it is today.

Our keynote speaker was Kathryn Ivany, City of Edmonton Archivist and Supervisor of Heritage Properties. Kathryn is an historian, with degrees from the University of Alberta and Cambridge University. She has been interested in history all her life. As the daughter of Reverend Canon Randall Ivany, a former President of the Churchill Society, the exploration of history and heritage were part of her childhood. She has spent her career in that exploration, including community involvement in numerous heritage and historical societies and projects.

Kathryn related the fascinating story of Clementine’s life, her family history and her charitable and wartime service. She spoke of “Clemmie’s” relationship with Winston, their marriage, family, and famous correspondence against the large backdrop of Winston’s career. Clementine was a large part of Winston’s world and of his success.

The Governor’s Room, formerly the Officer’s Mess in the Armoury, was an appropriate venue for the Tea, given its history. The Edmonton Heritage Band quintet provided a most enjoyable musical atmosphere, with such favourite tunes as “The Entertainer”, “Over the Rainbow”, and “Michelle”.

The room was decorated with Union Jacks and red, white and blue bunting. Our archivist set up a display of portraits of Clementine and the women who have spoken at our Memorial Banquets, with a brief biography of each. Tables were set with white tablecloths, dainty crockery, and floral centrepieces; purple for wisdom, justice and dignity, and yellow to represent joy, confidence, and friendship. Lady Bea’s English Tea House provided a variety of teas, and served delicious sandwiches, scones, and pastries on traditional three-tiered platters.

The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum, on the main floor of the Armoury, was opened for our guests to visit. Many took that opportunity to explore that jewel of local military heritage.

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Many thanks are due for this successful and enjoyable afternoon tea. Brougham and Carolyn Deegan, the Board of the Sir Winston Churchill Society, Debbie Hockett and the Edmonton Heritage Band, the South Alberta Light Horse Association, Kathleen Haggarty and the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum, and Antonia Rosa and the splendid staff of Lady Bea’s English Tea House.

And,  finally, our heartfelt thanks to all our members and friends who came out to support our special heritage celebration of International Women’s Day.