History of Our Twig Organization

Obtained from the web site of The New York United Hospital Medical Center

Newly arrived from Rochester in 1911, Mrs. J. Van Wyck Wickes, pictured at right, gathered together some ladies in Rye to form a sewing circle, hoping to provide some assistance to the supply department at United Hospital.Surely, none of them dreamed that their sewing circle would lead to the creation of an organization that would contribute so profoundly to the growth and excellence of that small community hospital.

Today, there are 22 active Twigs and 18 Honorary Twigs, with a membership of 850 women from the communities of Rye, Rye Brook, Port Chester, Harrison, Purchase, Mamaroneck, and Larchmont, NY.For 90 years, Twigs have sewn articles of clothing, managed shops, run golf and tennis tournaments and hosted countless other fundraising events, resulting in the contribution of tens of millions of dollars to United Hospital Medical Center . . . dollars that enabled renovations and the purchase of new medical equipment. In addition to the time given for fundraising, Twigs have graciously volunteered their service in the hospital and, on behalf of the hospital, out in the community.

In 1936, a notation in the Board of Managers minutes read, “The Twigs do such wonderful work, we could not exist without them.” And in 1949, the Twigs were described as “the Hospital’s mainstay.” Sentiments today go along the same lines. It is difficult to imagine what United Hospital would be without the Twigs.

There are countless tales of Twig successes, but some stand out in the Twig memory book: the Follies in 1949, 1954 and 1981; the Antique Shop, the Nearly New Shop, the Thrift Shop, and the Hospital Gift Shop; the Holiday Fair; the Fashion Shows; the Avon Tennis Tournament; and the Thunderbird Golf Tournament. In 1966, six hospitals joined United to present the Westchester Classic Golf Tournament, and the Twigs were out in force, ensuring that the event would be a success.

There is a wonderful camaraderie among Twig members, which may contribute to the fulfillment that they apparently gain from their hard work. For the sake of United Hospital Medical Center, it is hoped that the Twigs will maintain their enthusiasm well into the 21st century.

Mrs. J. Van Wyck Wickes with her daughter.

Old Hospital Photos

History of the Twigs