By IW Galleries
The Historical Association has honoured a resident of The Elms Nursing Home in Bembridge for her lifelong commitment to researching and promoting the social history of the Isle of Wight.
Johanna Jones, who was married to Dr Jack Jones, the late curator of Carisbrooke Castle Museum, has received an Honorary Fellowship from the Association. As she was unable to travel to London to receive her award, it was presented by Kenneth Hicks MBE, FHA, the President of the Isle of Wight Branch.
A resident at The Elms since January 2019, Johanna recently celebrated her 88th birthday.
Johanna, who was the immediate past President of the Island’s HA until her retirement, lectured on local history for the Workers’ Education Association. She is also the author of several Island history books.
Born in Llandudno in Wales, Johanna met husband Jack when they were both working for the Liberal Party. They married when she was 21 and moved to the Isle of Wight when Jack became the Curator of Carisbrooke Castle Museum. They lived in the Governor’s House within the Castle.
Johanna studied History and English at Southampton University and was awarded a Master’s Degree. In addition to her evening class courses in local history, she also contributed to the lecture programme of the IW branch of the HA.
Her proudest moment, she says, was her education, which gave her the opportunity to study for a degree at Southampton University.
The Fellowship was a complete surprise to Johanna, who celebrated her award with the Officers of the Isle of Wight Branch and the staff at The Elms.
Lesley Wise, General Manager of The Elms, commented: “We are extremely happy and proud for Johanna in her achievements.”
And Kenneth Hicks said he was delighted to present the HA Fellowship and could not think of a more deserving recipient. “This award recognises, albeit in only a small way, the tremendous contribution Johanna has made in sharing the history of the Isle of Wight.”
Isle of Wight Observer