Blue plaque unveiling marks 74 years of Women’s Institute history in Chichester

Members gathered at the Georgian property on Tuesday, December 9, to commemorate the 74 years – from 1948 to 2022 – that North Lodge served as the administrative heart of the West Sussex Federation of Women’s Institutes (WSFWI).

The building, located in Northgate, was a focal point for generations of WI members and witnessed decades of growth, campaigning and community work across the county.

Honorary treasurer and WI adviser Yvonne Price said the plaque was a fitting tribute to a building that held deep significance for members.

“We bought that property in late 1947, with shares paid for by members, and moved in during 1948,” she said. “For many years it was owned by the members themselves before being bought out by the federation as a charity.

"It remained our headquarters until 2022 and was very much loved, particularly by members in the Chichester area.”

North Lodge was eventually sold after rising maintenance costs made it increasingly difficult for the federation to sustain.

While the decision was not an easy one, the sale allowed the WSFWI to relocate to a more practical, centrally located building in Horsham, which has since been refurbished.

Despite the move, affection for the historic Chichester property remains strong.

“We still have a lot of love for North Lodge,” Ms Price added. “We felt the last thing we could do was mark it properly as having been the WI office for so many years.”

The plaque was unveiled during a small ceremony attended by current and former federation chairmen and trustees. It was covered beforehand with a vintage WI tea towel, a nod to the organisation’s heritage. Members then went on to St Paul’s Church for a WI carol concert later that afternoon.

The event coincided with another milestone for the organisation, as the Chidham WI celebrated its 100th anniversary on the same day.

West Sussex also holds a unique place in WI history, being home to the very first Women’s Institute formed in England, at Singleton and East Dean in 1915 – now marking its 110th year.

Ms Price said the unveiling was a proud and poignant moment.

She added: “It was a lovely ceremony and the weather was kind.”

The WSFWI shared news of the moment of history at North Lodge on social media.

A Facebook post, on Tuesday, December 16, read: “A truly special day in Chichester! On Tuesday, December 9, we gathered at North Lodge for a historic milestone: the official unveiling of our new Blue Plaque.

“This plaque commemorates the years that North Lodge served as the proud headquarters of the West Sussex Federation. For over seven decades, these walls witnessed the immense growth, dedication, and achievements of our members.

"While we look toward the future, it is vital that we honour the foundation upon which our organisation was built.

“It was wonderful to see familiar faces as we celebrated our heritage and the lasting legacy of the WSFWI in the heart of West Sussex.”