About Us
Crone of Puget Sound has been a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization since 1987.
This article provides an introduction to the history of our name, and a description of Crones.
About Our Name
The name Crone was chosen deliberately by founder Joyce Winsor reclaiming the symbol of respect and admiration given in times past to older women for their courage, endurance, and wisdom. Interview with Joyce Winsor
You might think of a Crone as a wizened old woman who cackles as she talks. Some cultures revered their crones as wise old women who carried the culture of their community. They were the healers, artists, midwives and counselors. They exemplified female wisdom.
Joyce chose that name with its present negative connotations to shed light on our society’s ageism and sexism. She wanted us to be proud of getting older– to “embrace our old age with power, passion and purpose”
Who Is a Crone?
Members ages range from 60 to 90+ and, no matter their ages, they have something to say. They create their own discussion groups that cover a wide range of topics. They accept new challenges, are intellectually curious, people-centered and assertive.
Crones are involved in many activities; they are writers and artists, singers, film producers, actors, lecturers, volunteers, political activists, hobbyists, grandparents, gardeners. They continue traveling, being active in their communities and staying involved with their families.
Newsletter cover by Deborah Taylor and Judith Starbuck
Founder Joyce Winsor said, “Women became excited that they could make their old age into their time; to be at peace with who they are, do the things they wanted for themselves, lead their lives in interesting ways.”