Annie Hewlett facts for kids

Annie Hewlett (born February 25, 1887–died 1974) was a talented writer and artist. She was originally from England but later moved to Saskatchewan, Canada. She is remembered for her work helping women on farms and for her creative writing and art.

Biography

Early Life and Education

Annie Elizabeth May Brown, who was often called Maisie, was born on February 25, 1887. Her hometown was Sutton-on-Hull in Yorkshire, England. She showed her writing skills very early. When she was just twelve years old, Annie started her own local newspaper! This newspaper continued to be published for many years, even after she left England. As an adult, Annie became a teacher in Yorkshire. She had trained for this job in London before moving back home.

Moving to Canada

In 1911, Annie decided to move to Canada. She first settled in Alberta and taught at a small country school near Kitscoty. On the ship journey to Canada, Annie met Arthur Hewlett. They fell in love and got married. Arthur had settled in Cannington Manor, which is in Saskatchewan. So, Annie moved there to be with him.

Helping Farm Women

Life on farms in the early 1900s could be very hard for women. Annie Hewlett wanted to make things better. She created the Saskatchewan Homemaker's Club. This club later became known as the Women's Institute. Her goal was to improve the lives of women living on farms. She believed women should have their own interests and rights.

Writer and Artist

Annie Hewlett was a skilled writer. She wrote for newspapers in both the United Kingdom and Canada. For many years, she wrote a popular column called Down on the Farm for The Saskatchewan Farmer newspaper. Her articles often focused on the importance of women having their own interests and rights. She was also a member of the Canadian Women's Press Club. Besides writing, Annie was a talented artist. She mostly created beautiful paintings using watercolours.

Later Life and Legacy

When Annie Hewlett was 83 years old, she published her life story. The book was called A Too Short Yesterday. Today, the house where her family lived is a museum. It helps people remember her important contributions as a writer, artist, and advocate for women.