In 2001, Members of Cookstown WI were surprised when ACWW President Hilda Stewart arrived at their 100th Anniversary gathering to bring greetings and best wishes. Stewart commented:

“Cookstown, Ireland, was my birthplace where my mother was founding Member of that community’s WI. To come to Cookstown, Ontario is a unique experience for me. Thanks to Joan Drysdale from Tec-We-Gwill, whom I met earlier, I was given this opportunity to attend this special event and visit our sister Cookstown in Canada.”

Other special guests included FWIO President Christine Reaburn, local Councillor Lynn Dollin, farmer/historical/columnist Brain Baker and Cookstown and District Chamber of Commerce Representative Bev Nix. Tweedsmuir Curator Joan McLean gave an interesting synopsis of the Branch history.