Volunteer Organizations

As in every Island community, a variety of organizations have been formed in Cardigan to benefit the local people.

Women’s Institute

In the 1900’s, a Women’s Institute was formed in Cardigan and contrib- uted to improvements 1n the village.

Over a period of years the institute purchased a piano for the Cardigan Hall, provided money for teachers’ supplies and for children’s Christmas gifts, and helped raise money for the new school.

It helped to maintain the village street lights and provided a music teacher for 10 years. Donations were made regularly to charities and the institute helped establish regular innoculations of school children and a dental clinic.

One of the institute’s social gatherings led to the establishment of the annual district convention. At a gathering in 1924, at the home of Mrs. J .P. McNichol, members from Georgetown, Montague, Brudenell, Roseneath and New Perth were present. The women enjoyed this exchange of ideas and interests, and it was decided to make it an annual event.

Unfortunately, due to insufficient interest, the institute was forced to disband in the early 1960’s.

Cardigan Hall Company

In 1871, the Cardigan Hall Company was formed by several Cardigan businessmen who saw the need for the community hall. The hall, built shortly after this company was formed, provided the citizens of Cardigan with a place to hold their meetings and social activities. From the Acts of the General Assembly of Prince Edward Island, 1896.

An Act To Incorporate the Cardigan Hall Company. (assented to April 30, 1896)

Company comprising. Dougald C. Morson, Duncan S. MacLaren, JamesE. MacDonald, Dr. ArchibaldA. Allen, JamesF. Norton, Cap - tain Joseph MacDonald and Clarence V. McDonald. The Cap ital Stock of the said Corporation shall be $800 divided into shares of $100 each. Lawful to mcrease said stock to an amount not exceeding $3,000.

71