The Northam Women’s Institute was founded 28 May 1923. The members of the first executive were Miss Lulu Yeo (President), Mrs. Susan Linkletter (Vice-President), and Miss Una Colwill (Secretary Treasurer). The first directors were Mrs. Daniel McArthur, Mrs. Edward McArthur, and Mrs. Edmund Maynard. The group originally planned to meet the second Thursday of each month.

The Northam Women’s Institute took a special interest in supporting their local schools, the hospital in Tyne Valley, the Prince County Hospital, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and the I.W.K. in Halifax. They raised money for the Cancer Society, T.B. league, and Mental Health awareness. They fostered community spirit through activities such as dances, ice cream socials, and lobster suppers. As well, they helped to sponsor the West Prince Music Festival and the Oyster Festival in Tyne Valley. The Northam Women’s Institute worked closely with the Red Cross both during and after the Second World War, and they continued to support many other local interest groups, such as the Rural Beautification Society. The Northam Women’s Institute amalgamated with the Birch Hill Women’s Institute after June 2007.