Abstract

In the Women's Institute's 100th anniversary year, this celebrated text is republished in a new and completely revised edition. There is a new chapter on the formation of the WI in the First World War and substantial additions to existing chapters, including discussions of the WI involvement with radio in the inter-war years, and with evacuation in the Second World War. The book also contains a new afterword on the resurgence of cultural enthusiasm for the domestic in the twenty-first century and its relationship to the present-day WI's feminism and growing popularity. Contesting common-sense perceptions about both the Women's Institute and feminism, Andrews interrogates preoccupations with domestic spaces and skills, and evaluates WI campaigns, especially how they articulate and attempt to meet the needs of rural women. The value system that the WI provided is explored as part of the movement's significance as The Acceptable Face of Feminism. 'This is the absolute best book on the history of the WI - authoritative and deeply researched, yet readable too.' Lucy Worsley, Historian and Chief Curator, Historic Royal Palaces 'The re-issue of this important book, in 2015, for the centenary of the foundation of the Women's Institute Movement, is timely. The cosy idea of the institutes being concerned with just "Jam and Jerusalem" is knocked on its head, as Andrews clearly articulates their role in social welfare and their relationship to feminism. This book enables a broader and more complex appreciation of the institutes, and their contribution to British society.' Professor June Purvis, University of Portsmouth.