BECKENHAM, WOMEN CITIZENS ASSOCIATION

The BWCA (1918 - 1976) was a branch of the National Women Citizens Association. The minutes cover only part of its existence as records have been lost or destroyed. The monthly meetings were held initially in members' homes, but later, as membership grew, at the Methodist hall and finally at the old council hall, Bromley Road.

The BWCA discussed contemporary social and political issues in debates and study circles and invited guest speakers to address members on these topics. Outings, with an educational emphasis, were also organised. However the association also concerned itself with local affairs. Representatives sat on various committees for community welfare. Domestic skills, such as dressmaking and millinery, were not neglected.

Activities were interrupted by the war but resumed soon after. The association remained basically unchanged until its closure in 1976, two years after the parent body.