History

Caynham and Ashford Carbonell are neighbouring villages in South Shropshire approximately three miles outside Ludlow. Both parishes are small rural communities. Stock rearing and arable farming have taken place here for centuries, although nowadays many of the villagers find them pleasant areas to live while earning their livings further afield.

The name of “Caynham” is an Anglo Saxon word derivation of “Caega’s Ham” or homestead of a person called “Caega”. The name “Ashford” is derived from the ford on the River Teme, over which passed an ancient trackway linking mid-Wales with the River Severn at Bewdley.

With approximately 210,000 informed and active members, the W.I. is recognised as a powerful force for positive change both locally, nationally and internationally.

Since the first mandate in 1915 the W.I. has been campaigning and raising awareness on issues of local, national and international concern. Some of the issues addressed recently include equal pay, the decline in rural services, the plight of the honeybee and international concerns such as global warming and the trafficking of women and children.

Caynham Ashford Women’s Institute was founded in 1923. Our written records only go back to 1939. The day war broke out, our papers were put out for the war effort. At that time our membership was 43 with an average attendance of 56%: in 2018 the membership has dropped to 36 with a regular attendance of 80%.

In 1941 a centre in each village was set up to make jam. At the height of the season 70 lbs, or sometimes 80 lbs, was made in a day. Fruit and vegetables were also canned. 1865 lbs in total were preserved that year. Other war work included knitting for evacuees.

We have always vigorously debated the annual resolutions, supported country affairs if possible and never failed to send delegates to national and federation events in spite of our difficult situation on the county boundary. For many years we took part in the West Midland Show but now have taken to competing at Burwarton Show and Shrewsbury Flower Show with auspicious success.

In our 1984 Domesday book, a picture of the villages is reflected in the many contributions from W.I. members.

Celebrations of our 95th year were held at our November meeting when a celebration cake and glass of sparkling wine were served as part of a supper brought by all our members.