The Canadian Girls in Training, or CGIT, was started by the Young Women’s Christian Association in conjunction with several large Christian denominations in 1915. The group aimed to provide girls with religious growth and community engagement opportunities. The group welcomed young girls from grades seven to twelve. Chapters sprang up all over the country, including in the Peace Region. Though we also have records dating from 1931-1934 from Lake Lite Canadian Girls in Training here at the South Peace Regional Archives, this post is concerning the “Honeybees” CGIT.
The Honeybees were an active CGIT group in Grande Prairie in the 1960s. They were a part of St. Paul’s United Church. In their own words, “Through the experience of thinking, playing, working, worshipping, and learning new skills together, the girls develop habits of living consistent with their growing understanding of the Christian faith.” The group became known as the Honeybees because of their leader, the dedicated Mrs. Rosamond Wilson. She was better known by her nickname, “Honey.” Mrs. Wilson led the girls for six years. Each girl held a specific role in the group, ranging from secretary to treasurer. The girls kept their own minute books, passed motions, and even crafted financial reports.
Religious activities were an important aspect of the group. Time for prayers was a significant part of each meeting. To be a member of the CGIT, the girls had to be regular church and Sunday School attendees. On at least one occasion, the Honeybees were responsible for hosting Sunday School as a teaching opportunity. They also hosted annual events like Christmas Vespers. The Honeybees were awarded a “Chevron Award” from the National Canadian Girls in Training of the Canadian Council of Churches for several consecutive years. The award represented the highest achievement of a CGIT group.
Though religious growth was a major focal point for the girls, they participated in many other activities. Some outdoor activities included hiking, biking, and overnight tenting trips. The Honeybees also planned events such as themed teas and a Mother’s Day banquet. They attended and hosted rallies with other CGIT groups from Northern Alberta. At these rallies, girls would participate in activities from Bible study to scavenger hunts.
The Honeybees showed their dedication to the group through their meetings, events, and projects. The girls also expressed their gratitude to Mrs. Wilson. In a scrapbook made by the girls, a message reads:
Mrs. Wilson, there just aren’t adequate words to express our gratitude and appreciation for the leadership and guidance you’ve given us these past six years.
In every persons [sic] life, there are one or two people special people besides their parents whose influence has been an inspiration in their lives. To each of the girls in our group Mrs. Wilson, you are one of those special people.
Though Mrs. Wilson no longer led the group after 1966, they reconnected at several reunions. Their last reunion took place at Mrs. Wilson’s home in 2001. Today, St. Paul’s United Church still runs a CGIT group.