An internationally recognised women’s rights campaigner from one of Birmingham’s most famous families is to be celebrated for Women’s History Month.
Selly Manor Museum will mark the life of Dame Elizabeth Cadbury on Thursday 6th March with a special evening of enlightening talks about her extraordinary life.
Dame Elizabeth, married to hugely successful chocolate entrepreneur George Cadbury, was an activist, politician and philanthropist.
During her lifetime, she was honoured with multiple awards, including an OBE and DBE, for her work improving women and children’s welfare, health and education.
The talks will be delivered by some of Birmingham’s leading historians and Caroline Cadbury, the great-granddaughter of Dame Elizabeth.
Louise Deakin, Heritage Engagement Officer at Selly Manor Museum, managed by Bournville Village Trust, said: “Women’s History Month is all about celebrating the extraordinary women who made an impact on our history, culture and society.
“Women, like Dame Elizabeth, who enriched our city and improved people’s lives. In a time when it was challenging for a woman to stand up for not just herself, but others, Dame Elizabeth took on roles and responsibilities that blazed a trail.
“She led an extraordinary life campaigning for equality, the rights and welfare of women and children not just in Bournville, but globally. We are so proud to celebrate her life and achievements this Women’s History Month and to hopefully inspire other women to achieve amazing things.”
The evening of talks will be hosted at Bournville Quaker Meeting House, 65 Linden Rd, Birmingham B30 1JT, from 6.30pm-8.30pm.
Speakers will include Dr Josie Wall (Digital Ancestors Project Manager for God’s Green Acre) Rachel West (Community Support and Development Officer for Birmingham City Council and previously Education Officer at Moor Pool Heritage Trust) and India Wilson from Bournville Village Trust. Each speaker will share key influences and moments that shaped Dame Elizabeth’s inspirational campaigning.
Booking is essential and whilst the event is free, Selly Manor Museum welcomes donations towards Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid. The charity supports women and children affected by domestic violence and abuse.
This event is just one of many different ways that Bournville Village Trust will be celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. The Trust was founded by George Cadbury in 1900 and Dame Elizabeth Cadbury was Chair of the organisation following Geroge’s death.
For further details about the talks and to book, please go to https://sellymanormuseum.org.uk
B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Bluesky, Mastodon, Threads, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Support us by donating at www.b31.org.uk/donate. Send us local story ideas to hello@b31.org.uk