Our social gathering ‘In The Ballroom’ at the Court House on 12th March featured a talk by historian and writer, Christine Cluley about The Life and Times of Cecily Lucas, a local women with a fascinating life as a campaigner for women’s equality.
Cicely Anne Lucas ( known as Cal) ,1879 – 1970, was at once outspoken, beautiful, opinionated and adored by the pupils she taught.
The only girl of 4 children, she was treated as an unpaid skivvy and was determined to assert her independence, eventually achieving a double first at teacher training college.
She particularly wanted to teach girls and was an advocate for women’s rights, becoming a suffragette where she joined a rally in Hyde Park and had stones thrown at her.
After a stint teaching at the British Embassy in Paris (even though she hated the French !), she returned to live in Claverdon and carried on teaching until she stepped out in front of a car and was killed aged 90!
After the talk there was the usual tea, coffee and cake served by the volunteers and Helen’s picture-quiz featured notable women.
‘In The Ballroom’ takes place at 2pm on the second Wednesday of each month. It costs just £3 to include the refreshments – cash on the door please. The next edition on April 9th will feature a talk by Rick Thompson based on his book, ‘A Year of the Fosse’ – the history and wildlife of the famous Roman road.
Space is limited so it is essential to reserve your place at the Visitor Information Centre; or call them on 01926 492212.
