League of Mothers badge

This badge was made for members of the League of Mothers, and features a quatrefoil Christian cross.

The League of Mothers was a non-denominational Christian organisation founded in New Zealand in 1926 by Lady Alice Fergusson, the wife of the Governor-General at that time.

Aims of the movement

The aims of the movement were to uphold Christian marriage and help parents embrace their responsibilities in raising their children; to show concern for others; and to provide fellowship for women.

Both rural and urban branches were formed, and the League was popular in its first decades. Women could express their religious beliefs through welfare work in the community, and they could socialise while their children played together.

Māori women

Māori women were encouraged to join, and branches were formed, beginning with Wairoa in 1929. Lady Mīria Pōmare became vice-president of Māori and scattered branches in 1939.

The name

From 1926 to 1987, the organisation was known as the League of Mothers. From 1987 to 1996, it was known as the League of Mothers and Homemakers of New Zealand.