Hanes

We are now thriving on our lovely Island, and welcoming new members every week.

We have more than 300 girls joining us in more than 28 different units across the island, supported by a huge 100+ wonderful volunteers, whether on a weekly basis or occasionally at county events! 

The new County Standard was dedicated at Beaumaris church.. It had been made by Guiders and Menai Ranger Unit, led by Mrs.Nan Rowlands, Guide Guider from Llangoed.

Rainbow units were first formed on the Island. 2nd. Valley and 2nd.Benllech being the first.

The Chief Guide came to open the Guide House at Lligwy. It is still well-used, having been enlarged and refurbished over the years. It is used by Guiding and Scouting groups and other charitable organisations for sleepovers; Brownie and Guide holidays and training sessions.

The county was given the chance of buying Penrhoslligwy Primary School – and the money to buy it was raised in 9 months.

The Queen and Prince Philip came to Beaumaris and the Guides formed the Guard of Honour.

The first Carol and Gift Service was held. Numbers in the County were too big for the churches on Anglesey and Bangor Cathedral was used. This was carried on until 1975. Services were then held in Districts.

Miss Chadwick resigned as County Commissioner. Miss Claire Daniell took over.

Menai Bridge Scout and Guide Hut was opened by the Chief Guide. This was requisitioned by the Army in 1939 (3 hours notice to quit being given) and was returned in 1947. The Guides met at the YWCA.

Between the two World Wars Guiding grew on Anglesey. Camping was very popular – started in 1919 and enjoyed by everyone although very basic, rather primitive and quite unrestricted.

There were County Competitions, and representatives took part in National Events.

During the 2nd.World War, Guides from all over the County helped with the war effort. Numbers grew and more companies were formed. The evacuees from Liverpool helping to swell the numbers.

A group of Guides and Rangers went to the Coronation of King George VI and also went to see the King and Queen at Caernarfon Castle

The first Guide Hut was opened in Holyhead by the Chief Commissioner for Wales.

This was taken over by the YMCA in 1939 for the duration of the 2nd World War, and was returned to the Guides and re-opened in 1945.

A Rally was held in the grounds of Penrhyn Castle for Anglesey and Caernarfonshire Guides and Brownies for the Princess Royal, President of Girl Guide Association.

A Ranger Patrol was started in Menai Bridge, which then became Sea Rangers and worked with the Guides. It then became 1st.Anglesey Ranger company. More Ranger units followed in the County, mainly Sea Rangers.

Mrs.Purdy? became County Commssioner.

Miss Chadwick became County Commissioner.

First big rally for Anglesey and Caernarfonshire Guides was held in Caernarfon Castle and was attended by the Chief Guide. A Guide from Menai Bridge was presented with her Gold Cords – and eventually became Mrs.Morris, Guide Guider and District Commissioner for Menai Bridge.

District Commissioner for Menai Bidge and Llanfair – Mrs. ? Purdy?

First County Standard was made by St.Dunstans and was given to the Guides by Mr.Johnston of Menai Bridge. This was very well used and was carried for the last time in 1987 at St.David’s Cathedral. It is now on display at the Guide House, Lligwy.

2nd.Holyhead Guide company was formed.

1st.Llangefni Brownies were registered.

Miss Claire Daniell started 1st.Llangefni company.

Brownie packs started to appear.

Lady Magdalen Bulkeley was the first County Commissioner.

Large County Camp was held at Llandonna – 54 girls from the 5 Anglesey companies and guides from Caernarfonshire.

The first company was registered as 1st.Anglesey YWCA company.

During the same year others followed: 2nd.Holyhead YWCA company and 1st.Beaumaris YWCA company.