Penryn Women's Institute
12:45pm Monday 21st May 2012 in Falmouth & Penryn Parish News
Members met at the Welfare Hall on Wednesday and were welcomed by president Maggie Williams, who introduced guest speaker Priscilla George of St Ives.
Mrs George gave an illustrated talk on the history of St Ives, which proved to be a most fascinating subject, as well as recording various aspects surrounding this colourful corner of Cornwall – landmarks, buildings, etc. She included anecdotes of local characters from the past and also presented individual cameos of local artists including Barbara Hepworth, Brian Leach and Andrew Wilson.
Mrs George told how St Ives originally attained its name from Saint Eia, who traversed the Irish Sea, presumably by coracle, landing at St Ives and establishing a Christian settlement on the site of the present parish church, St Eia.
Tin mining was once carried out at St Ives followed by copper and for a short time, uranium. St Ives welcomes an influx of over 200,000 visitors during the summer months, which goes to prove how popular this attractive and delightful Cornish town has become.
Margaret Whibley proposed an appreciative vote of thanks to Priscilla George for her visit and giving such a comprehensive history of her town.
An enjoyable meeting closed with refreshments served by hostess Kathryn Hodge and helpers.
