Coughton Women and Power

In 2018 at Coughton we explore women’s work, duty and political agency during the First World War through the stories of women, both at Coughton Court and in the local area.

Four Women. One War.

In 2018 we’re exploring women’s work, duty and political agency during the First World War through the stories of four Coughton women from different backgrounds – Emily Ainge, Isabel Eagles, Kate Mason and Lilian Throckmorton.

The Coughton community was a hive of activity throughout the war years, as women led the local effort to support soldiers on the Western Front, whilst raising their families and taking on work traditionally carried out by men. As in many towns and villages throughout Britain, Coughton women got together frequently throughout the war to organise fundraising, knitting drives and aid for wounded servicemen. They sent hundreds of ‘knitted comforts’ and other items to soldiers.

Knitting pattern used by the women. (PDF / 3.326171875MB) download

Using the stories of a group of local women from different social classes, our new display explores how the war affected domestic life in Coughton and asks questions about women’s roles, the relationship between women’s war work and suffrage, and how electoral reform towards the end of the war changed the nature of women’s power. 
The display, ‘Four Women. One War.’ will be open in the Saloon at Coughton. You will not need a timed ticket to visit this display. If you intend visiting the rest of the house you will need a timed ticket. Please pick up one from Visitor Reception on your way in.