History of the Ladies Auxiliary in Delta

On a Monday night in September 1944 a meeting was held in the Municipal Hall, and under the auspices of the Delta Branch #61 Canadian Legion, a branch of the Women’s Auxiliary was organized.

Mrs. C.W. Bingham was chosen as the new organization's first president, with Mrs. F.M. Thorne as first vice-president, and Mrs. F. B. Fisher as second vice-president. Secretary will be Mrs. J. Pinkerton; treasurer, Mrs. R. Giddins, and standard bearer, Mrs. W. Wellburn.

Introduced by Dr. F. M. Thorne, president of Delta Branch, Canadian Legion, Mrs. B. Currey, of Vancouver, local representative of provincial Command of the Women's Auxiliary, acted as chairman for the meeting, explaining the aims, objects and organization of the auxiliary branch. Mrs. D. McLellan, secretary of the Women's Auxiliary in BC, assisted Mrs. Currey. Twelve ladies joined as charter members of the branch and the Charter was received on October 17th, 1944.

In Boundary Bay Cemetery, there is a memorial stone dedicated to the men and woman who gave their lives for Canada in the two world wars. Sometimes referred to as the "Forgotten Memorial", it was placed there on September 11, 1966 by members of the Ladies Auxiliary to Delta Branch 61. Currently it is the site of the service to commemorate the D-Day Landing.

In 2004, the Ladies Auxiliary to Branch 61, celebrated their 60th anniversary, with six past presidents in attendance, dignitaries and members from all the Tri Zone branches. We have one member who will receive her 60-year membership pin in 2005. The Ladies Auxiliary to Branch 61 raise funds by doing 50/50 draws, the BBQ Beef in a Bun booth at the Ladner Pioneer May Days celebration and our yearly Western Night, as well as many other functions. The proceeds from all our varied projects are donated to Veterans Hospitals such as George Derby Center, Tsunami Relief Fund, Fire Relief Fund, local Hospitals and many local charities. Our membership is small, only 35 members, but we make a difference in our community!