History of Our Club

Our club had its origins more than twenty years ago when George and Pauline Morgan who had been round dance enthusiasts and instructors in Quebec moved to Nanaimo in their retirement. The club’s name is a combination of their new location and the initials of George’s full name ( George Edward Morgan). The Island G.E.M.S was born. Two keen members of this thriving club were Russell and Helen Maddeaux, also transplants from the East. Helen and Russell had moved from Ontario to McBride BC and finally settled in Nanaimo.  When the Morgans retired from instructing in 2008 Helen and Russell took over the leadership role in the club. Helen taught many of our current members and was a mentor to new cuers.  She continued teaching until 2020. For the last year she enlisted the aid of three protégées, Connie Ritchie, Wendie Harrington and Deb Schmidt. When Helen moved to Ontario to be closer to family they shared the leadership for one year.   When Debbie and husband Ray relocated to Castlegar, Wendie and Connie became the leaders. Helen’s influence is still felt by all of us today when we are teaching and cueing.