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Women And Southwark Park

Pat Kingwell Published by Kingwell Publications 2019

Pat Kingwell has asserted his rights under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act, 1988, to be identified as the author of this work.

The book is not for sale. It is available only by a financial donation to Southwark Park Association 1869 acceptable to the publisher. Some copies have been passed on free of charge to various organisations, libraries, and individuals. The book shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be resold, hired out, or otherwise circulated without the publisher's prior consent in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published.

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Designed by Debra Gosling Cover: Caryatides ©Debra Gosling 2019 Introduction On 19th June 1869 Southwark Park suffragettes and feminists are was first opened to the public. recognised. Monarchs and their In this year of 150th anniversary representatives are included, as are celebrations, and in support of Temperance Queens. Just to confirm International Women's Day, this book how all life is found in a park, there acknowledges the part some women are even a few criminals. have played in the story the park. In bringing this work together my In conjunction with Southwark Park special thanks to Debra Gosling for Association 1869, brief information her design contribution. No claims is presented about more than two are made to comprehensiveness. hundred individuals who have been A book like this will never be associated with the park over the complete, so I present what I have years. What follows is a wide cross- found in my research of the public section of women, some whose records. Apologies if any deserving names are famous, but many, many women have been overlooked. more who may well be unknown or It is my hope that readers may be long-forgotten. You will read about inspired to do their own delving into writers, poets and artists; singers, the history of our fine old park, and musicians, entertainers and actors; that one day a much fuller account of sportswomen, environmentalists and the role of women will be given. teachers; campaigners for park Until then - enjoy! improvements and the often unheralded workers and volunteers Pat Kingwell who put things into practice. March 2019 Politicians, trade unionists,

1 2010 ©David Toogood Margaret Aldridge Local resident. In March 2000 she donated personal memorabilia to the time capsule sunk in the park.

Anood Al-Samerai Liberal Democrat politician. Anood is the leader of the Liberal Democrats on Southwark Council and a North Bermondsey Ward councillor. Over many years she has consistently supported Alicia Amherst (1865-1941) the protection and promotion of the Horticulturist, botanist and author. Alicia park. In 2011 she was instrumental in Amherst sometimes wrote under her opposing a proposal by a utility married name Mrs. Evelyn Cecil. company to tunnel within the park, and As such, in 1907, she wrote of in 2018 spoke out against inappropriate Southwark Park in her book commercial ventures which cause London Parks and Gardens environmental damage and reduce "It is more the want of design, than any community access to the park. special style, that is conspicuous, and a In 2016 Anood presented medals at the good deal more could have been done to Bermondsey Carnival Tennis Day. make the Park less gloomy. Anood was also a leading figure in the An avenue is growing up, but it will Save King's Stairs Gardens campaign. never have the charming effect of the one across Battersea, as the line is Moniza Alvi neither straight nor a definite curve. Poet. In 1993 she published her poem The wildfowl on the pond are such an Meeting attraction, that perhaps it may be the an Ex- wire netting and asphalt edges they Pupil on a apparently require are not drawbacks, Spring but they are not beautiful. The gateway Morning, into the Park, near Deptford Station, has which is rather the grim look of a prison, and yet, set in with the forest of masts behind, all it Southwark requires is a climbing plant or two to Park. make a picture." 2 Sarah Jane Baines

Maisie Anderson and Political Union around 1905. Labour Party politician. By 1908 she was a full-time organiser In 2016 she presented medals at the for the WSPU in the north and Bermondsey Carnival Tennis Day. Midlands. One of the first suffragettes to advocate militant methods, she was Suzanne Ayliffe imprisoned fifteen times. She continued Singer. She played the part of Agnetha to campaign until her death in 1951. in the Abba Gold Girls tribute band, at On 29 June 1909 she spoke at a large the Bermondsey Carnival in the park in women's demonstration in the park. 2018. Mancie Baker Miss Bacon Singer songwriter. In 2015 and Lavatory attendant. 2018 she performed in the In May 1927 the London park at the Bermondsey County Council Carnival. reported that when she was retired from her Miss A. Baldwin post her birth Teacher. In July 1902 certificate showed she she played a major role should have been retired in organising the girls' three years earlier. Mancie Baker events at the first Bermondsey and Southwark Sarah Jane (Jennie) Baines School Sports Festival in the park. (1866-1951) Several thousand spectators watched. Suffragette. Born in Birmingham, she began working in a factory aged eleven. Julie Barleycorn Following involvement with the Athlete. On 1 July 1983 she won the Salvation Army, the Temperance Southwark Five Mile Road Race for movement and the Independent Labour women, which started in the park. Party, she joined the Women's Social 3 Jane Barnes’ Mural

Mrs. B. Barnard Jane Barnes Local resident. Member of the In February 1928 Bermondsey she wrote a letter to Artists Group, the London County based at the Café Council suggesting Gallery in the park. the paddling pool in In 1999 she co- the park be fenced in ordinated a project during winter months to with pupils of Pilgrims protect children. Way Primary School. The work, Southwark Park Mosaic, was fixed to the wall of the visitor's centre, later the café, until 2013, when it was removed and irreparably damaged. In 2010 Jane helped organise the Our Park exhibition in the Gallery.

Raina Barrow Filmmaker. In August 2010 Raina directed and produced a film of the Our Park oral history project book launch. ©Michael Holland 2015 4 Sharon Bassey ©Debra Gosling 2018

Sharon Bassey Hope Union Open-Air Festival Apiarist and founder held in the park in June member and current 1939 Joyce was crowned Chairperson of the ninth Temperance Southwark Park Queen. Association. Sharon The theme of the has developed demonstration was beehives in the 'Alcohol Retards park, run Progress. Alcohol educational The Drug Is A workshops for Drag'. adults and children, and Joy Beaumont ©David Toogood 2017 ©David Toogood secured funding In 2014 Joy took for bee-related part in the activities. documentary film It's Our Park, which Joyce Basted includes her own rare Temperance advocate. 'home movie' footage of At the Bermondsey Band of the Southwark Park lido.

5 Mrs. S. Beale Procession Secretary. In 1977 she organised the Bermondsey and Rotherhithe Carnival Grand Procession around the park.

Grace Beesley Member of the Southwark Park Bowls Club and founding member of The Friends of Southwark Park. During the In 2010 she contributed her memories late 1970s Grace to the Our Park oral history project. was a leading light in establishing the Bermondsey Carnival Ladies Team. In 2002 a new pavilion Tennis Day Volunteers was opened, a project in which Grace The Tennis Day is an established part played a major role. In 2002 Grace of the annual Carnival, and since 2016 became the first woman President of the several women have given their time Southwark Park Bowls club. In 2001 as to make it such a success, including Chair of Arica House Tenants Judy Feasey, Rebecca Kaloo, Sallie Association Grace successfully called Rickerby, Tracy Stewart, Perrine for investment in the One O'Clock Club. Summers and Mrs. Kar Yee Tung.

Tennis Day Volunteers

6 Jenny Bianco Miss Maureen Booth Former Deputy Lieutenant of Southwark Temperance advocate. and Patron of Southwark Park At the Bermondsey Band of Hope Union Association 1869. On 19 June 2013 Open-Air Festival, held in the park in Jenny unveiled the June 1946, Maureen Coronation Tree was crowned plaque in Temperance Queen. celebration of the 60th anniversary of Mary Ann Queen Elizabeth II's Boultwood coronation. Resident of Sedan In September of the Street, Walworth. same year Jenny In July 1877 she presented awards to sought permission young volunteers from the who worked in the Metropolitan Board park as part of the of Works to allow National Citizenship Jenny Bianco her blind husband to Programme. play the harmonium in the park on Sunday evenings. Mrs. Blakeley The request was denied. Resident of Jamaica Road. In March 1869 her husband Dr. John Blakeley Mrs. Boyes made a request to the Metropolitan Resident of Barkworth Road. Board of Works to take her and her In June 1891 she complained to the daughters for a walk in the park before it London County Council that her was officially opened to the public. husband had been prevented from flying The request was denied. a kite in the park. 7 Mrs. Brady Florence Britt Resident of Rose Lane. Resident of Clements Road. In November 1867, as a yearly tenant In September 1893 she was found guilty on the market gardens, which were to at the Old Bailey of murdering her baby become Southwark Park, she was son Sydney Mauden Britt by drowning given a gratuity of £5 by the him in Southwark Park lake. She had also Metropolitan Board of Works as attempted suicide. Witnesses testified they compensation for the loss of her had seen her in the park looking strange. business. While awaiting trial she said 'I do not know what made me do it, I was worried Rosina Britchfield and upset about my husband's dinner, and Domestic servant. worried over the child.' Medical evidence In May 1871 she stole money from concluded that Florence was suffering Miss Ostwell of Gipsy Hill and took a from puerperal melancholia and was not charity box. in a state of mind to know the nature and The police found her in Southwark quality of the act she was doing. Aged Park and placed her into custody. In just 22, she was ordered to be detained till court she admitted the theft and said His Majesty's pleasure be known. Rev. W. that she did it to help her sister pay for Kaye Dunn of Manor Chapel was given some goods, and thus escape getting permission to interview her after the trial, into trouble. as she was a member of the Manor She was given six months' hard labour. Women's Own and well respected. ©David Toogood 2017 ©David Toogood 8 Miss Brooks Chairperson of the Maternity and Teacher. In July 1906 she requested the Welfare Committee. London County Council set aside a In April 1932 Ada was Secretary of a portion of the park for use by girls special committee to organise a from Myrdle Street School Stepney, Children's Sports and Gala Day in the who came every Friday afternoon to park, which was a big success. About play netball and tennis. The request 600 children took part and all was denied. competitors were given a bag of pastries and lemonade courtesy of the Ada Broughton (1879-1934) Labour Co-operative Bakery and Royal Bermondsey Arsenal Co-operative Society. Councillor and suffragette. Mrs. Brown In the years Resident of Jamaica Lane. In November immediately 1867, as a yearly tenant on the market before the gardens which were to become First World Southwark Park, she was given a War, as a gratuity of £5 by the Metropolitan member of the Board of Works as compensation for the Women's loss of her business. Freedom League, she Ruth Brown organised many meetings Temperance advocate. in Scotland for factory girls. Moving to At the Bermondsey Band of Hope London she was elected to Bermondsey Union Open-Air Festival, held in the Council. On losing her seat in 1922 she park in June 1945, Ruth was crowned was made an Alderman, and became Temperance Queen.

9 Elizabeth Miriam Burgwin During the Second World War the (1850-1940) Army had been based in the park, but Teacher, child welfare pioneer and by 1946 had decamped. trade union activist. Due to extensive bombing there was a In December 1873 severe shortage of homes in post-war she was appointed Bermondsey, so families like the head teacher of Cain's unofficially took over empty Orange Street buildings. School, Southwark. Judith Carlton In 1891 the Director of the London School Gallery in the board appointed Park. Judith her superintendent of came into post schools for special instruction. in 2015, having She was the first woman elected to the previously National Union of teachers executive. worked at On 11 July 1902 she oversaw the first Matt's Gallery, Bermondsey and Southwark School Cubitt Gallery Sports Festival in the park, which and Studios, The included girls' events. Serpentine Galleries and Hatton Gallery, Newcastle. Ruth Bustin Temperance advocate. Katharine Carter At the Bermondsey Band of Hope Resident of Globe Street, Rotherhithe. Union Open-Air Festival, held in the In March 1874 she was found guilty park in June 1948, Ruth was crowned of stealing a waterproof cloak from a Temperance Queen. child named Anderson and from Ruth also designed a mass tableau Sarah Jane Dovey, a pair of boots, 'Saving Our Nation', which contained and money. sections on health (Drummond Road); Mrs. Mary Ann Dovey, Lucy Street, wealth (Southwark Park said she sent her child with 4d, to Congregational); life (St. Andrews purchase some tea, when she was met Presbyterian); food (Gedling Street by the prisoner, who took the child Mission); and a centre piece into the park, robbing it of its boots (Bermondsey Gospel Mission). and the four pence. Mrs. Anderson, also of Lucy Street, Mrs. Cain said her child was taken at the same Homeless woman. In August 1946 she, time into the park by the prisoner, and her husband and their young daughters robbed of the waterproof cloak. Margaret and Maureen, moved into the Evidence showed that Carter had former military huts in the park. pawned the stolen items.

10 Mary Chambers serving as Prime Minister, amongst Member of Rosewell Tennis Club. many other duties she was Chairwoman In April 1891 she signed a petition of the Red Cross Aid to calling on the London County Council Russia Fund and the to provide more tennis courts. The Young Women's petition was successful. Christian Association War Mary Cheeseley Time Appeal. Resident of Paradise Street. In In July 1941 the September 1874 she was visiting Bermondsey Shelter Southwark Park to meet her daughter Council in and other relatives. On entering the conjunction with Clemmie Churchill park she had to pass 49 year-old Edwin Council for the Fox, who was carrying a thick cane, Encouragement of Music and the Arts with which he struck her sharply on the provided open-air performances of The back of the head, at the same time Taming of the Shrew in Southwark Park. walking rapidly away. Fox, a She attended the first night and the hairdresser of Wellington Street, South London Press reported she "wore Rotherhithe, was committed to a navy dress with white polka dots and Wandsworth Gaol for two months' with an inch-pleated elbow-length cape and a hard labour for the assault. velvet snood in her hair."

Nicola Cheetham Elizabeth Clack Manager of Southwark Park. Nicola Resident of New Cross Road and owner became manager of Southwark Park in of a property on land designated for 2017, only the second woman to hold Southwark Park. In July 1866 she the position to date. claimed compensation for her cottage with garden facing Deptford Lower Road Clementine Churchill together with a piece of land in (1885-1977) Rotherhithe New Road. The Metropolitan Baroness. During the Second World Board of Works agreed a payment of War, while her husband Winston was £250, about £15,000 in current values.

11 Teresa Claramunt (1862-1931) Ann Clayton Catalan anarchist, writer and feminist. Community She was a weaver Engagement by trade and a Manager. strong public In 2010, while speaker. working with A mother of Time and five children, Talents, Ann who all died gave considerable before her, she support to the Our spent half her Park oral history project. life in prison. Following a terrorist Alizon Cleal attack in Barcelona in 1896 she was In 2014 Alizon took part in the arrested, brutally beaten, tried and documentary film It's Our Park. deported to England. On 1 August 1897 she spoke at a public meeting in Miss Louisa H. Coaffee the park protesting against the (1873-1926) inhuman treatment of Spanish Gym Attendant. Louisa came to anarchists. Southwark Park from Myatt's Fields in She saluted those who protested July 1915. In October of the same year against the tortures. She saluted all she was transferred to Nelson those who loved liberty and progress. Recreation Ground. She said the victims in Spanish government prisons must not be Frances Coleman forgotten and called on the people of Artist/ Gallerist. A founder member of London to give hospitality and help. the Bermondsey Artists Group, and Café Gallery (CGP London) in the Alison Clayburn park, of which she is the Finance and Creative Writing Venue Hire Manager. Frances is also tutor and founder director of the nearby Coleman Project member of Space. Southwark Park Mary Coling Association In October 1891 she was convicted of 1869. In 2016 damaging flowers in the park and fined she compiled two shillings. Voices Of The Park, an Miss Dorothy Cooper anthology of Park Keeper. In March 1948 Dorothy writing inspired by the was one of the first women to be park, for which she also provided appointed onto the permanent staff at many photographs. Southwark Park.

12 Yvonne Coulette spoke in the campaigns for (1919-2007) Irish Home Rule and the Actor. In July 1941 she played cooperative movement and the part of Viola in the open- against vivisection and air production of William compulsory vaccination. Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, She is recorded as set on 'a charming Elizabethan speaking on behalf of stage' in the trees. women's rights between The Times reported 'The Viola of 1868 and 1884 with a tone Miss Yvonne Culette suffered Yvonne Coulette like a 'mighty melodious bell'. from the production's inclination She planned and carried out her towards the static; there was, however, a tours by herself, travelling all over the graciousness about her which redeemed land accompanied only by her little a certain monotony of mood and dog. On 23 September 1883 Jessie intonation, and it was easy to understand spoke at an Anti-Vaccination League the attraction she had for Olivia.' meeting in the park which drew an audience of more than 1,000 people. Jessie Hannah Craigen (c1834/5-1899) Celia Cronin Suffragette and freelance speaker. Park Ranger and local historian. It is not certain where in the U.K. she In 2010 Celia was an interviewer for was born, although a newspaper in the Our Park oral history project. 1866 described her as a 'Scotch lady'. She was a working-class woman who Stephanie Cryan Labour Party politician and Councillor for Rotherhithe Ward. In 2017 she presented medals at the Bermondsey Carnival Tennis Day.

Maureen Deacon Temperance advocate. At the Bermondsey Band of Hope Union Open- Air Festival held in the park in 1950 Maureen was crowned Temperance Queen.

13 Bonita Delaney Singer. She played the part of Frida in the Abba Gold Girls tribute band at the Bermondsey Carnival in the park in 2018.

Jennie Demont Athlete. On 30 November 1986 Southwark's first ever 10k athletics race was held in aid of the Mayor's Charity. Jennie won the women's race and over 800 spectators saw her presented with a trophy.

Mrs. Dennis Jane Deakin Wife of Park Superintendent Charles Artist. Member of the Bermondsey Dennis. She suffered badly from the Artists Group, based at the Café Gallery dampness in the Southwark Park lodge in the park. In 2010 Jane contributed to where her and her husband lived. In the Our Park oral history project. August 1873 Charles Dennis requested, and was granted, a fortnight's leave to Una Dearman care for his wife. "I should like to try Temperance advocate. the effect of a change of air upon her," At the Bermondsey Band of Hope he wrote. Two months later he wrote Union Open-Air Festival, held in the again to the Metropolitan Board of park in June 1943, Una was crowned Works: "I cannot by any means keep Temperance Queen. the Lodge from damp the effect of which is developing itself very Mrs. Deavin seriously on the health of my wife and Landlady of the Duke of may soon attack me. Sussex Public House, My wife has been Rotherhithe New Road. sixteen months in the On 2 June 1872 she lodge of which she has reported a man behaving been fifteen under the indecently towards two Doctor's hands. young girls in the park. Although she never He was caught by her previously had any husband and subsequently illness. I am convinced convicted and sentenced to that dampness in the three months hard labour. sleeping room is the She received 5s cause of her illness. compensation for She is now attending attending court. Mrs Dennis’ damp house Brompton Hospital." 14 Charlotte Despard

Charlotte Despard (1844-1939) Gwen Dickey Anglo-Irish suffragist and writer. Singer. On 6 June 2008, the American Kent-born Charlotte French came from a artist, best known as the front voice of conventional background and married a soul band Rose Royce, performed at The wealthy businessman. When her husband Event in Southwark Park. died in 1890, Charlotte decided to dedicate the rest of her life Dora Dixon-Fyle to helping the poor. Labour Party politician. In Wandsworth she In 2014, as Southwark funded and staffed a Council's cabinet health clinic, as well member for adult as organizing youth care, arts and culture, and working men's she welcomed people clubs, and a soup to the Bermondsey kitchen for the local Carnival in Southwark unemployed. She Gwen Dickey Park, saying "It is always a campaigned to reform the Poor Law highlight of our events calendar system and was a member of both the and despite some typical British Social Democratic Federation and the summertime weather 7,000 of you turned Independent Labour Party. out to enjoy the fantastic line-up of music, In 1906, she joined the Women's Social dance, food and funfair - it was amazing and Political Union, and was twice to see so many of you getting into the detained in Holloway Prison. In 1907 spirit of the day!" she and others formed the Women's Freedom League. She was an ardent believer in Irish Home Rule and a supporter of a united Ireland. On 12 September 1920 she spoke at a 'Hands off Ireland' demonstration in the park which attracted a big crowd. Dora Dixon-Fyle

15 Miss Edwards Resident of Honor Oak. In August 1885, following the opening of the lake in Southwark Park, she donated two pairs of Muscovy ducks.

Miss E.M. Elder Tennis player. In June 1887 she

©Michael Holland 2008 successfully called on the Metropolitan Board of Works to provide lawn tennis courts in the park.

Beryl Donovan Florence Eyre In 2010 Beryl contributed her memories Lido Attendant. In July 1928 she was to the Our Park oral history project. censured by an inquest jury following the death of 8-year-old Dorothy Ada Bridget Donovan (1906-1993) Conoley, who drowned in Southwark Park Keeper. During the 1960s and Park lido. She said she did not notice 1970s Bridget worked in the children's the child as there were about 200 playground, and is still fondly bathers during the evening. remembered for her storytelling She found some clothing in one and also for helping mothers by of the compartments when she looking after their children went round to close up, and while they went shopping. looked into the shallow end of the baths, but could see Janet Donovan nothing. In evidence it was In 2010 Janet contributed her said it was impossible to memories to the Our Park see to the bottom of the oral history project. deep end owing to the dark Janet Donovan growth in the water. Elizabeth Downes The jury returned a verdict of In October 1882 Elizabeth Downes was "Accidental death" and added that fined for indecent conduct with Edward Florence Eyre was deserving of James in the park. censure for not making a thorough search when she Emily Druiff found the child's Artist and Curator. clothing. The In May 2001 her Coroner agreed with work Emit was the jury, and said exhibited at the re- that he thought that opening of the Café her attitude was Gallery in the park. Emily Druiff most disgraceful.

16 Ann Faber Louisa Fisher Author and resident of Rotherhithe Street. In October 1953 she and others appealed to the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings about the proposed demolition of historic houses in the street to provide an extension to Southwark Park, later known as King's Stairs Gardens.

Miss Few Fete organiser. On 4 July 1936 the Lady Gomm Cottage Hospital in Hawkstone Road held a Jubilee Year fete and bazaar in the park. Miss Few loaned and organised the stalls.

Mrs. Field Mother of nine children. In August 1885 George Field, an unemployed bricklayer of Dartford, was imprisoned for being unable to pay a shilling a week towards the Louisa Fisher (1928-1988) support of his father in Dartford Resident of workhouse. He was imprisoned in Bermondsey, who Maidstone Gaol, but his indebtedness lived her adult was not cancelled. years close to Appearing in court again he asked the the park, which magistrate, "We are all Englishmen, she knew very ain't we? If I can't get work what am I well. to do?" He also asked if his family Louisa worked as ©David Fisher 2019 were to starve for another 31 days. a cleaner, and also For his perceived impertinence the at Courage's brewery Chairman rebuked him as a disgrace to in Horselydown and Peek Frean biscuit his class and gave him a further month in prison. On 30 August 1885 almost factory in Drummond Road. 1,000 people, largely composed of During the Second World War she was working men engaged in the building photographed dancing at the bandstand trade, met in the park to protest against with Stanley John Fisher, who she the conduct of the magistrates. married in 1947. A collection was made for Mrs. Field Her son David is a founder member of and taken to her home in Dartford. Southwark Park Association 1869. 17 Fikkan Skolekorps Joan Francis Marching Band. In May 2014 they Mother and resident of Camilla Road. performed at the Norwegian Bi-centennial She complained to Southwark Council celebrations held in the park. about children using play equipment in Southwark Park as a toilet. 'The giant's Miss Louise Fletcher head is being used as a lavatory. The Culling Road resident. In October 1899 health risk is tremendous, especially in she complained to the London County summer,' she said. In April 1993 the Council about boys getting on and over Council agreed to open a portable toilet the park wall at the back of her garden. for children using the playground. ©Gary Magold 1990 ©Gary Magold 1990 18 Miss Frank first published in 2018, includes scenes Resident of Blackhurst, Tunbridge set in Southwark Park. In March 2019 Wells. In May 1904 the London as part of the park's 150th anniversary County Council accepted her offer of a celebrations Mary gave a public talk. peacock and peahen for the park. It was reported "Miss Frank regrets to Mrs. Gillespie say that at the present moment the In July 1869 residents of Banyard Road, peacock has no tail. It strayed to join Union Place, Wells Terrace and some more peacocks at a house near, Rotherhithe Street, petitioned the and in the scrimmage of being caught Metropolitan Board of Works seeking lost its tail, but it is a fine bird." permission for Mrs. Gillespie to have a stand in the park. The purpose of the Mrs. P. Garrod stand was not indicated, but she was Lido Attendant. In April 1968 she was described as "a respectable woman, in awarded a bronze medallion in reduced circumstances. Her husband lifesaving. being an invalid suffering from chronic consumption she is compelled to do Mary Gibson something for their livelihood. We can Author. Mary has published six novels, vouch for her respectability and all set in Bermondsey, where she was efficiency as a businesswoman." born and brought up. Hattie's Home, No decision was recorded.

19 Ann Godsave Eileen Frances Greenwood Resident of Reculver Road. In March (1902-1985) 1881 she was imprisoned for fourteen Labour Party days due to indecent conduct in the politician. During women's toilet with James Fleming. the Second World War the park Debra Gosling was used as a Author, designer and founder member military base. and Secretary of Southwark Park Although peace Association 1869. Over many years was declared in Debra has produced and designed 1945 it was not numerous publications about the park, until 1950 that the perhaps most notably Our Park in park was finally de- 2010, The Bygone Friends of requisitioned. During those five years Southwark Park Vol.1, The Trees of Eileen consistently pressed the Southwark Park in 2017, and this book. authorities to bring the park back fully In 2010 she also carried out interviews to the people. Eileen was Mayor of for the Our Park oral history project. Bermondsey in 1950-51.

Mary Gosling Mrs. Rose Hannen Artist. Mary has produced several Gym Attendant. She came to work in works about the park including, the park in February 1901, but lasted Southwark Park The Bandstand, only a short time in the job, before Southwark Park Event Supergroup and being dismissed for misconduct. It was 140 Years of Southwark Park. reported that she was unable to manage In 2010 Mary contributed her memories the children and had walked out saying to the Our Park oral history project. she 'had had enough of it.' It was said she was unsuitable for the work, being very neglectful, and was known to periodically beg by means of her son at public houses in the evenings. As she had little clothing the

©Mary Gosling 2010 London County Council assented to her retaining her uniform provided the official badge and number was removed.

Mrs. Richard Hare Patron of the Bermondsey and Rotherhithe Carnival. The procession of the first Carnival assembled in Southwark Park on 18/19 July 1900.

20 Vivien Harland Hicks as Maria and Mr. Heron Carvic as Artist. Vivien started working at Cafe the fool to stir the scenes they share Gallery Projects in Southwark Park in between them to a proper life and vitality. 2010 as an invigilator and is currently There is much in these two smallish parts Assistant Director. for actors who know where to look, and Miss Hicks and Mr. Carvic not only Miss Florence Harwood sought but found.' Park Keeper. In March 1948 Florence was one of the first women to be Marjorie Hill appointed onto the permanent staff at Founder member of the Friends of Southwark Park. Southwark Park and Southwark Park Association 1869. For Mrs. Emma Heesom almost a quarter of a century Lavatory Attendant. Marjorie has consistently She came from Peckham Rye supported, promoted and Park to work in Southwark protected the park. In 2010 she Park in December 1908. contributed her memories to the Our Park oral history Mrs Irene Hesley Gardener. In March 1948 Irene project, and in 2014 took part in Marjorie Hill was one of the first women to be the documentary film It's Our Park. appointed onto the permanent staff at Connie Hockley Southwark Park. Secretary of the Bermondsey and Rotherhithe Carnival. In July 1976 the Patricia Hicks (1919-2011) Actor. In July 1941 she played the part of Carnival in the park consisted of a parade Maria in the open-air production of and other activities including tug-of-war; William Shakespeare's football and netball matches; Royal Twelfth Night, set on Artillery display; motor cycle display; 'a charming Royal Navy Youth Team display; donkey Elizabethan stage' derby; and sky diving. in the trees. Lady Hollick The Times Businesswoman, reported 'On broadcaster and Tuesday evening human rights the elements were campaigner. not as kind as they In May 2001 might have been, a part she spoke at the of the microphone arrangements got out official launch of hand and boomed disconcertingly, and of the newly there were other distractions in the noise refurbished Café of children and dogs playing beyond the Gallery in the canvas walls. It needed Miss Patricia park.

21 Miss Holmes Christine Hyde’s painting Resident of Paradise Row. In April 1869 she sought 500 guineas compensation for damage caused to her health and her property by the works carried out to create Southwark Park. Letters sent on her behalf claimed a broken garden fence and ruined shrubs; destruction of a large greenhouse and "vines of many years standing;" a spoiled pianoforte, caused by damp. Of her health it was written: "Miss Holmes was attacked by rheumatic fever, or some affection of that kind, which rendered her incapable of using her limbs, and she was attended in consequence by Mr. Bryan for twelve months, sometimes at four guineas an hour, sometimes at two ©Christine Hyde 2019 guineas. For ten months Miss Holmes Christine Hyde was incapable of dressing or otherwise Artist. Christine created a painting, acting for herself without the aid of Southwark Park Café, which during others, her arm during the whole of that 2018 was exhibited in the Deli Felice period being heavily encased and even café in Albion Street. at the present time she is unable to raise it above the height of her head." Mary Ives The Metropolitan Board of Works Market Gardener. In July 1866 she refused to accept requested the Metropolitan Board of liability. Works to delay taking the land for Southwark Park so she could bring in Mrs. Alice M. her crops. Hough Gym Attendant. Mrs. James She retired Gym Attendant. She worked in from service in Southwark Park from October 1901 to summer 1902.

Southwark Park ©Debra Hough 2019 in June 1965. Mrs Audrey Jerram Miss Eva Howard Park Keeper. Gardener. In March 1948 Eva was one In March 1948 Audrey was one of the of the first women to be appointed onto first women to be appointed onto the the permanent staff at Southwark Park. permanent staff at Southwark Park.

22 Lucy Johnson promote the park in their Deli Felice café Local resident. In March 2000 she in Albion Street. In 2009 they supported donated personal memorabilia to the the Our Park oral history project by time capsule sunk in the park. hosting a group interview with women from the Rainbow Arts Group. Janet Kay Singer Grace Kimmins (1871-1954) songwriter. Child welfare reformer and member of In 2017 'The the Bermondsey Settlement. Queen of She lived for a time in Rotherhithe and Lovers Rock' was the performed in the driving park at the force behind Bermondsey the Guild of Carnival. Play, which sought to Dawn Kelly-Jones promote the Local resident. educational In May 2001 she raised concerns about value of threats to wild birds caused by lake play restoration works in the park. amongst city girls, Joan Khachik (1928-2009) and The Labour Party politician. In 2001, when Guild of the a board member of the Southwark Poor Brave Neighbourhood Renewal Fund, she Things, helped gain money to upgrade the which aimed to improve services for Southwark Park One O'Clock Club. disabled boys. She argued that education should not be confined to Maddalena Kharfi school timetables and scheduled hours Businesswoman and artist. Maddalena but it should, 'invade all public playing- and her husband Felice regularly exhibit spaces, parks and open places as well as art works and other materials which halls of entertainment, and even the streets and alleys of towns and cities'. In March 1902 she gained the approval of the London County Council to allow the Cricket Club of the Guild of Brave Poor Things to play in the park although over age. The boys wore a badge indicating the club to which they belonged in order to signify they had been given permission to play.

23 Doris Law Temperance advocate. Doris was Temperance Queen in the 1950s.

Nora Lawrence (1918-2015) Park Keeper. During the 1950s and 1960s Nora worked in the park where she was particularly well-known for her gardening and care of plants.

©Pat Kingwell 2008 Susan Lawrence (1871-1947) Lesley Kingwell Labour Party During the 1970s she regularly walked a politician. One of fierce dog called Jezebel around the Labour's first park. In 2010 Lesley contributed her women MPs. In memories to the Our Park oral history 1932 she spoke project. at a May Day demonstration Ethelfloed Caroline Knight- held under the Bruce (1892-1956) Reformer's Tree, Chairwoman of the Bermondsey Shelter in the park. Council and organiser of the Bermondsey Shelter Festival during the Second World War. Mrs. Jane Laxton Gym Attendant. In July 1941 she was instrumental in She came to the park in October 1899, arranging open-air performances of and was in post for a few months before William Shakespeare's Taming of the asking to be transferred back to her Shrew and Twelfth Night in the park. previous job at Nelson Recreation Ground. She wrote 'I beg most Mrs. Langton respectfully to ask you that I Widow. In April 1870 Doris Law may be allowed to Rev. Henry Clarke return to Nelson Mitchison, of Street Recreation Christ Church Ground as soon Rotherhithe, as it is open sought again as I feel permission for the strain of duty her to sell at the gymnasium sweetmeats in the and sandpit at park. The Southwark Park will be Metropolitan Board of too much for me in the Works denied the request. longer days.' Her request was agreed to.

24 ©David Toogood 2018 ©David Toogood

King’s Stairs Gardens

Elizabeth Lee Dr. Eroica Lewis Resident of Southwark Park Road. Resident of Rotherhithe Street. In October 1930 she was arrested for In October 1953 she and others washing a dog in the paddling pool at appealed to the Society for the the park lake. Protection of Ancient Buildings about When she appeared before Tower the proposed demolition of historic Bridge Police Court, she denied the houses in the street to provide an charge, and said the dog jumped from extension to Southwark Park. her arms and into the water. The appeal failed and King's Stairs The children paddling there took a Gardens was developed. fancy to the dog and enticed it in to the water, as they liked to see it swim. Miss Maureen Long She denied the offence, and said that in Temperance advocate. consequence of illness she was unable At the Bermondsey Band of Hope to wash herself, much less her dog, nor Union Open-Air Festival, held in the would she degrade herself by washing a park in June 1950, Maureen was dog in public. crowned Temperance Queen by Mrs. The case was dismissed. Robert Taylor. The tableau theme was 'Safety First'.

Miss A. Lethbridge Mrs Eileen Lovell Actor. In July 1941 she helped arrange Park Keeper. In March 1948 Eileen the open-air performances of William was one of the first women to be Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew and appointed onto the permanent staff at Twelfth Night in the park. Southwark Park. 25 ©David Toogood 2018 ©David Toogood Eveline Lowe the famous Night and Day (1869-1956) dance routine. She often Labour Party politician. appeared on the English stage She served on the Board of and stayed in the UK during the Guardians; the London County Second World War years. In July Council Education Committee and then 1941 she was the star of the open-air as a London County Councillor from Shakespearean production of Taming of 1922-1938. In 1939 she became the first the Shrew in the park. She played the part woman to Chair the London County of Katherine. 'I am really looking Council. In April 1891, as Eveline forward to playing to Bermondsey. I have Farren, she signed a petition calling on heard so much about the wonderful work the London County Council to provide their shelter council has done, and when more tennis courts in the park. we have given the show I hope to go and The petition was successful. In July 1923 see the shelters,' she said. she presented a petition against Sunday games. During the 1920s and 1930s she was a regular attender of the Labour Party and trade union May Day demonstrations held in the park.

Claire Luce (1903-1989) Actor, dancer and singer. American Claire was one of Fred Astaire's partners, and he credited her as the inspiration for

26 Edith Lupton (1843-1904) Bermondsey Strikers Artist, feminist and libertarian. Born in Leeds in 1843 into a wealthy household, she was educated at home before training as an artist at the Slade in London. From 1882-1888 she was an independent member of the Bradford School Board, where she campaigned strongly for education improvements. In 1890 Edith moved to London to agitate full-time for William Morris's Socialist League. She settled in south London, where her favourite place to speak was New Cut, then in Southwark. She organised to liberate women from the harsh working conditions of MacDonald. She helped found the commercial laundries. This brought her National Federation of Women Workers into court several times in 1892 with and was its General Secretary. In 1911 fines imposed and two weeks in prison she was especially active in organising served. Edith kept on campaigning, and women factory workers in Bermondsey, getting arrested, but late in life she including a great demonstration in succumbed to alcoholism. Southwark Park in August after pay In 1904, she died in Marylebone, rises had been won from the employers. impoverished and un-mourned. In July 1914 she spoke at a Her contribution to the story of demonstration in the park over the issue Southwark Park came in September of fines and deductions from women's 1889 when she spoke at two Great wages. She gave examples such as two Dock Strike rallies in support of the pence for laughing at the dinner-table men employed at the Surrey and threepence for being late in the Commercial Docks. morning.

Mary MacArthur (1880-1921) Mrs. Mackay Suffragist, socialist Gym Attendant. She came to Southwark and trade unionist. Park in October 1899, and was in post Mary moved to for just a few months before London in 1903 transferring to Clapham Common. from Scotland Monica Maeland and worked Norwegian Conservative Party closely with politician. In May 2014, as Minister of early Labour Trade and Industry, she spoke at the leaders Keir Norwegian Bi-centennial celebrations Hardie and Ramsey held in the park. 27 Irene (Rene) Magold Anita Marloe (1931-2018) Brownies' Organiser. For many years Rene In 2014 Anita encouraged the 1st was a regular Southwark Park Brownies to create Kid's attender of events Park, a Southwark Park nature trail leaflet in the park. for children. In 2010 she contributed her Eleanor Marx (1855-1898) memories and Socialist activist, literary translator and photographs to actor. Eleanor was the youngest daughter ©Gary Magold 2010 the Our Park oral of Karl Marx. In December 1889 she history project. spoke at a mass meeting in the park in support of the Silvertown gas workers strike. Eliza Mann Liberal Democrat politician. Rosamund Massy (1870-1947) Eliza is a long-serving Southwark Suffragette and Councillor who currently represents organiser in the North Bermondsey Ward. Over many Women's Social years she has consistently supported and Political the protection, promotion and Union. She was community access to the park. imprisoned In June 2008, as Mayor of Southwark several times for she formally opened the new her suffragette cricket pitch in the park. activities. In June 1909 she was a principal speaker at a mass meeting of women in the park.

Kathleen Metcalfe In 2010 Kathleen contributed her memories to the Our Park oral history project.

Mrs. Clara Merivale Mayer Australian suffragist. In the years leading up to the First World War, as a member of the National Union of Women's Suffrage Societies, she toured England speaking for women's' right to vote. She organised women in Bermondsey in readiness for a mass demonstration in the park on 25 June 1909. ©Gary Magold 2008

28 Joan Mercer Temperance advocate. At the Bermondsey Mint Juleps Band of Hope Union Open-Air Festival, held in in the park in June 1931, Joan was crowned the first Temperance Queen.

Louise Michel (1830-1905) Teacher, writer and French socialist heroine of the 1871 Paris Commune when she both fought and The Mint Juleps looked after the All female a capella group. Consisting of wounded. From the four Charles sisters - Sandra, Debbie, 1881 to 1895 Lizzie and Marcia - and their friends Julie she lived in Isaac and Debbie Longworth - in July London and was 2008 they played at The Event in head of a Southwark Park. libertarian school. She returned to France and Beryl Mortimer her travels, dying in Marseilles. Temperance advocate. At the Bermondsey In August 1897 she spoke in the park at a Band of Hope Union Open-Air Festival, Labour Protection League meeting held in in the park in June 1938, Beryl protesting against the inhuman treatment was crowned Temperance Queen. of Spanish anarchists and the Walsall anarchists. Rubyjo Narbey Park Ranger. In March 2000 she Gladys Miller organised the time capsule project in the Temperance advocate. At the Bermondsey park, which contains memorabilia Band of Hope Union Open-Air Festival, donated by local individuals and held in in the park in June 1937, Gladys organisations. was crowned the seventh Temperance Queen by Hon. Hilda Dillon. The theme of the demonstration was 'For An A1 Nation MILK Is Best' and contained sections on the benefits of milk for babies, children, adolescents and middle aged.

Dannii Minogue ©Gary Magold 2000 Singer. In July 2001 she got under way the Carlton London Fun Run in the park.

29 Coral Newell Agnes O'Connell Labour Party In July 1990 her London Irish Girl politician. Pipers Band performed at the Irish In June 1989 Summer Festival in the park. Coral opposed the axing of the Mary O'Connor Southwark Park Country Carnival and singer. campaigned In July 1992 successfully to she have it reinstated performed at in 1990. the Irish Summer Bev Nicholson Festival in Athlete. In October the park. 1989 the future Commonwealth Barbara Old Games bronze Temperance advocate. medallist, won At the Bermondsey Band of Hope the women's Union Open-Air Festival held in in the Miles of Miles park in June 1948 Barbara was event at crowned Temperance Queen. Southwark Park athletics track.

Kate Nottidge Community Engagement Manager of Grosvenor Britain and Ireland. In March 2015, in conjunction with Bede Centre, she arranged the planting of 30 fruit trees near the China Hall entrance to the park. ©Pat Kingwell 2015 30 Lynne Olding ©Debra Gosling 2016

Lynne Olding Betty Olliffe Head Gardener in Southwark Park. In Local resident. In March 2000 she 2010 Lynne contributed to the Our Park donated personal memorabilia to the oral history project, and in the years time capsule sunk in the park. since has regularly given guided tours of her beloved Ada Salter Garden. Marie O'Reilly Irish singer, pianist and harpist. In July 1992 she performed at the Irish Summer Festival in the park. ©Gary Magold 2000

Betty Olliffe

31 Sonia O’Sullivan Jo Pavey

Fiona O'Sullivan asking for boots because "the wear and Young Friends of Parks Co-ordinator. tear of boot leather in the gymnasiums During the early 2000's Fiona organised is almost incredible." activities to attract young people to the Her request was declined. park. Lil Patrick Sonia O'Sullivan Community activist and member of the Athlete. In November 2004 she took Bermondsey Trades Council. In August part in the Nike 'Go Nocturnal' 10k race 1963 she called for an adventure which finished in Southwark Park. playground, which was eventually installed in the park. Dorothy Oxley In 2010 Dorothy carried out interviews Jo Pavey for the Our Park oral history project. Athlete. In November 2004 she won the Nike 'Go Nocturnal' 10k race which Joyce Parsons finished in the park. Local resident. In May 2001 she raised concerns about Mrs. Peel threats to wild birds caused by lake Gym Attendant. She worked in restoration works in the park. Southwark Park from 1900-1901, before transferring to Waterlow Park. Mrs. Victoria Parsons Gym Attendant. In December 1894 she Miss R. Pennicott was employed at Kennington and In July 1924 she and ten other lido Southwark Parks on alternate days. users wrote to the London County Victoria remained in her job for almost Council suggesting that after 7pm on five years. She was a spokeswoman for women and girls' day, under 14's should her colleagues. In April 1895 she wrote not be admitted. a letter to the London County Council

32 Mrs. Penning Andrea Pita In October 1907 her daughter Alice Contract and (11), was witnessed to have plucked Services Officer. dahlias in the park. Andrea started in Mrs. Penning was reported to 'have the park in July treated the matter with contempt when 2011 and since the offence was brought to her notice.' then has been an invaluable link ©Andrea Pita 2018 Dr. Marion Phillips with the (1881-1932) community and Australian local schools. born Amongst the projects she is most academic, proud of is her work with teenage women's volunteers on the National Citizenship rights Programme. campaigner and one-time Mrs. Plested Labour Party Lavatory Attendant. She was in post at MP for Southwark Park in April 1915, having Sunderland. previously worked at Royal Victoria On 14 August Gardens, North Woolwich. 1911, at a demonstration of women factory Bertha Poole workers in the park, she announced that In October 1881 she was sentenced to following strike action several firms seven days imprisonment for indecent had increased wages, including Pink's, conduct in the park with George Wyatt's, Young's and Shuttleworth's. Bridgeman.

Bertha Poole got 7 days...

Duchess of Portland (1863-1954) At a large Temperance Jubilee Demonstration, held in the park on 3 July 1897, she received an address for presentation to Queen Victoria.

Patricia Preston 1937 -2016 Temperance advocate. Patricia Preston At the Bermondsey Band of Hope Union Open-Air Festival held in the Miss P. R. Price park in 1951, Patricia was crowned Teacher. In July 1902 she played a major Temperance Queen. In 2010 she role in organising the girls' events at the contributed her memories to the Our first Bermondsey and Southwark School Park oral history project. Sports Festival held in the park. 34 Princess Martha Louise Queen Elizabeth Second On 17 May 2013 Monarch. Princess Märtha In 1953 a tree was Louise and her planted in the family led the park to mark her parade of several Coronation. hundred On 9 June 1977 Norwegians at as part of her the annual Silver Jubilee Constitution Day celebrations the celebrations. Queen unveiled a The Princess was also piece of inscribed the main speaker at the event. stone from the former Surrey Commercial Docks in King's Stairs Mrs. Quarrelle Gardens. In June 2014 Southwark Resident of Hawkstone Road. Park became a Queen Elizabeth II In September 1903 her husband Field in Trust. complained to the London County Council about window panes broken by Queen Victoria football and cricket players in the park. Monarch. In August 1885, to mark the An investigation confirmed the breakages, opening of the lake in the park, she but found the incident was the result of gave a pair of cygnets. Mrs. Quarrelle roughly handling a They failed to arrive on the day boy, whose friends later caused of the ceremony, but were the damage as retribution. provided shortly afterwards.

35 Paula Radcliffe Athlete. In November 2004 she took part in the Nike 'Go Nocturnal' 10k race which finished in Southwark Park. Lay, Sue Lim, Juliet McEwan, Kathleen Moss, Jean Murray, Pat Rainbow Arts Mynott, Vi Newman, Beryl Phillips, Vi Group Redmond, Sylvia Tull, June In 2010 the group, which operates at Whittenstall and Mary Wu. Time and Talents Centre, contributed memories to the Our Park oral history project and also had their works Ebony Rainford-Brent Cricketer and broadcaster. In June 2008 exhibited in the Café Gallery in 2014 Surrey and England international as part of the Southwark Park Act Ebony launched the new synthetic commemorations. Members who took cricket strip in the park, after which a part included Barbara Andrews, Wendy match between Riverside Primary Burgess, Rose Campbell, Eve School and St. Josephs Primary School Jajechnik, Eileen Kimberling, Gertrude Gomm Road was held.

Zandra Rhodes Fashion Designer. She attened the Bermondsey Carnival in the park in summer 2003.

June Richardson In 2010 she contributed her memories to the Our Park oral history project.

Rotherhithe Caryatides Sculptures. In 2011 the former Rotherhithe Town Hall sculptures were Joan Regan (1928-2013) restored and relocated to Southwark Singer. In June 2004 and 2008 she Park. Occasional concerts have been performed at the Bermondsey Carnival. held at the beautiful attraction. Andrea Allen managed the project. ©Debra Gosling 2017

37 Norah Runge (1884-1978) Mrs. Rosina Sales (1905- Conservative Party 1970) politician and former Gym Attendant. Rosina worked in the MP for park during the 1960s. Rotherhithe. In July 1938 she Ada Salter (1866-1942) spoke at the Legendary figure in Bermondsey and opening of a new London Labour summer holiday politics. shelter in the park As an for children under environmentalist five years of age. she recognised The scheme allowed working mothers to the inestimable leave their children for a charge of a value of halfpenny an hour. The children received Southwark Park milk and biscuits. to the people. In 1934 she Mrs. Mary Rush secured funds for an Gym Attendant. Mary began work in the English Rose Garden, which was summer of 1902 and stayed in post until opened to the public in 1936. 1909, one of the longest continuations of After Ada's death in 1942 the garden service as a gym attendant at the time. was renamed in her honour. ©David Toogood 2018 ©David Toogood

38 Mrs. Elizabeth Search couple of dozen men who were not in (1858-1941) sympathy with the objects of the Lavatory Attendant. She came to meeting, and it was not until a free Southwark Park from Myatt's Field fight had taken place that order was and was recorded as in post by 1895. restored. By 1901 she was earning 3s a day (about £12 today). Her male Miss Sims counterpart was earning 4s a day. Anti-vaccinator. In September 1883 Elizabeth stayed in the job until she presided over an Anti-Vaccination December 1908 when she moved to League meeting to protest against Peckham Rye Park. She died at a good compulsory vaccination and the by- old age of 83 in Camberwell. law of the Metropolitan Board of Works prohibiting public meetings in the park. Over a thousand people Mrs. Sharp attended. A Sister of Phoenix. In January 1890 she spoke at a meeting of the London Beverley United Costermongers' Protection Skeete League, held in the park, to protest at Singer. In July their evictions from their place in the 2004 she sang streets by the local authorities. with Bill Wyman's Mrs. A. Sherwood Rhythm Kings at Gym Attendant. In 1909 she came The Event in the from Newington Gardens and stayed park. in post for two years. She certainly had her work cut out. In 1911 the Park Mrs. Hanna Sheehy Superintendent Carson reported Skeffington to the London County Council (1877-1946) that the number of children Irish author, feminist and using the park had greatly republican. In September increased, especially during 1920 she spoke at the 'Hands the holidays, when the off Ireland' demonstration in daily average was about the park, organised by the 2,000. Bermondsey and Rotherhithe Hanna Sheehy Trades Council and Labour Miss Mary Simmons Skeffington Party. Temperance advocate, Poor Law Guardian and Bermondsey Settlement Sophia Slipper worker. On 13 May 1893 she spoke at Landowner. a public meeting in the park in support In 1874 she was compensated £362 of the Local Veto Bill. The platform for land taken as part of the on which she stood was disturbed by a development of Southwark Park. 39 Elizabeth "Sissie" Smith Southwark Park and King's Stairs Member of the Southwark Park Lake Gardens for the benefit of the public. In Extension Committee. In 1907 she was addition to those mentioned elsewhere given a purse for collecting 7,000 in this book, other members include signatures in favour of an enlarged Susan Dellet, Jill Gibbs, Anita Holmes, boating lake. Jill Jerram, Fran Jones, Stephanie Kenward, Jenny Kingwell, Shirley Maud Smith, Kingwell, Stacey Linstead, Margaret (also known as Gwen) Lloyd, Benita Meli, Pam Miller, In 2010 Maud, who grew up in Lynton Heather V. Nicholson, Tracy Scales, Road, Bermondsey, contributed her Louise Sheridan, Ann Smith, Amanda memories to the Our Park oral history Squires and Susan Vaughan. project.

Mrs. R. Smith Gym Attendant. She retired on 31 May 1968.

Southwark Park Association 1869 Members The Association was founded in 2018 with the aims of celebrating the 150th anniversary of the opening of the park to the public and to also promote 40 Jean Stanford Artist. Jean's works about the park include Walking in Southwark Park and Summer in Southwark Park.

Stick In The Wheel Folk Music Band. In June 2015 they performed at the Caryatides in the park. Band members Southwark Park Bowls included Fran Foote, Nicola Kearey and Club Members Ellie Wilson. At its height the Ladies team was affiliated to the Surrey County and South London Mrs. Jane E. Stothard Women's Bowls Association. Grace (1872-1937) Beesley developed the women's game, Gym Attendant. along with other women including Eileen Jane commenced work in Southwark Box, Mercie Butler, Eileen Crew, Lily Park in September 1918 and retired Fleetwood, Doreen Hams, Joyce Heather, on medical grounds in May 1935. Maud Holmes, Mary Horne, Brenda After seventeen years in post she was Johnson, Violet Jones, Irene Kemp, Ethel granted a special gratuity of £40 by Leverington, Pearl Pike, Beryl Prevett, Kit the London County Council, about Saunders, Mary Sawyer, Violet £2,000 today. Shrimpton, Pat Spence, Mary Stanley, Jane must have been very highly Michelle Statham, Rose Trotman, Winnie regarded. She died in Bermondsey in Waller and Wendy Webster. September 1937, aged 63.

41 Mrs. June Swale June 1936 Dorothy was crowned Senior Play leader at the One O'clock Temperance Queen. Club in 1975. Voices Of The Park Miss M. Talmadge Writers. In 2016 the following women Speaker. In July 1913 she spoke about contributed to the anthology of writing the futility of war at a public meeting in inspired by Southwark Park: Rose Southwark Park under the auspices of Ades, Jane Deakin, Katherine Evans, the Association for the Right Helen Frederick, Cindy Glover, Sylvia Understanding of International Green, Daisy Moone, Ariadne Interests. Pascaladini, Mira Rutter, Sue Stewart and Natalie Webb. Hannah Taylor In 2010 Hannah Miss Walker contributed to the Our Teacher, who on 11 Park oral history July 1902 played a project by major role in transcribing organising the girls' interviews. events at the first Bermondsey and Rosie Thornton Southwark School Park Manager. In the Sports Festival in the early 2000s Rosie park. Over 2,000 became the first ever competitors took part. woman manager of ©Gary Magold 20008 Southwark Park. Mrs. Webb Resident of Dartmouth Mrs. Ethel Tilley Terrace, Rotherhithe New (1886-1960) Peta Webb Road. In June 1872 she Lavatory Attendant appointed witnessed a man behaving in February 1930. indecently towards two young girls in the park. Mrs Florence May Tompkins He was caught and subsequently Park Keeper. convicted and sentenced to three In March 1948 Florence was one of the months hard labour. She received 5 first women to be appointed onto the shillings compensation for attending permanent staff at Southwark Park. court.

Dorothy Topley Peta Webb Temperance advocate. At the Singer. In July 2008 she sang with the Bermondsey Band of Hope Union Titanic Syncopators on the park Open-Air Festival held in in the park in bandstand.

42 Flo Weller (1920-2011) open to the sea or river." Miss Werry's Market Trader in The Blue, Southwark wishes came true when King's Stairs Park Road. In 2010 Flo contributed Gardens was finally completed in 1982. her memories to the Our Park oral history project. Countess of Wessex In July 2002 she and Miss Margaret Werry the Earl of Wessex (1897-1983) officially Resident of Keeton's Road. rededicated In March 1953 she wrote a letter to Southwark Park South London Press about the following the proposed extension of the park to the completion of riverside. "The arguments put against major heritage the extension of Southwark Park, restoration works. Bermondsey, to the riverfront leave me aghast. Along Bermondsey's three Dora West miles of riverfront there is not a point Liberal Party politician. where the inhabitants may enjoy the In the General view of the river, except from Tower Election of 1929 Bridge and across one or two bombed she contested the sites which, presumably, will Rotherhithe eventually be built upon. seat. On 8 May When I first came to Bermondsey, 1929 she spoke four years ago, I walked miles trying at a meeting in to get a glimpse of the river, but the park before always was frustrated by ugly 'a large and warehouses and wharves; it was a very voluble crowd great joy to me when I learned of the under the scant possibility of the extension of shade of the Reformer's Southwark Park to include a Tree.' It was known as the portion of riverfront where one "Flapper Election" because for might sit on a summer the first time women under evening and watch the thirty years of age were shipping. Man does not live allowed to vote. by bread alone and a little Patricia Wheeler more consideration for his Temperance advocate. aesthetic requirements At the Bermondsey Band of might go far towards Hope Union Open-Air reducing undesirable Festival held in the park in tendencies. No garden June 1950 Patricia was enclosed on all sides can give Patricia crowned Temperance Queen. the same sense of release as one Wheeler

43 Carol White (1943-1991) Community Council. Kath has helped Actor. In 1966 she appeared in Ken fund projects in Southwark Park. Kath Loach's BBC drama Cathy Come was Mayor of Southwark in 2016-17 Home, scenes of which were filmed in Southwark Park. Jean Whymark Temperance Evelyn Louisa White advocate. At the Resident of Cathay Street. Bermondsey In 1894 she sought compensation from Band of Hope the London County Council, claiming Union Open- she had sustained injuries caused by Air Festival falling over a wrought iron bar in the held in in the park. The Council denied liability. park in June 1947 Jean Kath Whittam was crowned Labour Party politician. Rotherhithe Temperance Ward Councillor and Chairperson of the Queen. It was Bermondsey and Rotherhithe the centenary demonstration and the tableau consisted of six groups: 'From Pub Bars To Prison Bars'; 'Children Slaves To Drink'; 'The First Band of Hope Festival 1847'; 'The Bridge Across The 100 Years'; 'The Brewers Plot in 1932 To Wreck The Bridge'; 'The Movement Still Growing Strong in 1947'.

Hilary Wines

Mrs. Williams Frances Garnet Wolseley On 4 July 1936 the Lady Gomm (1872-1936) Cottage Hospital in Hawkstone Road Second Viscountess Wolseley and a held a Jubilee Year fete and bazaar in horticulturist. She was educated the park. privately but rejected marriage and the Mrs. Williams provided entertainment conventions of her upper-class given by the "Jubilee Babes" Concert background in favour of gardening Party, a group of Rotherhithe education. children. She founded a gardening college at Glynde in Sussex in 1902, which ran Hilary Wines (1944-2010) courses for women. She was the author Liberal Party politician. of Gardening For Her time as Mayor of Southwark in Women, published 2001-2 coincided with the restoration in 1908. of the bandstand in the park. She She was a attended the works site and was only Patron of the reluctantly dissuaded from climbing first the works scaffold by Health and Bermondsey Safety regulations. and Rotherhithe Mrs. A.M.M. Wing Carnival, the Gym Attendant. procession of In 1911 she came from Victoria Park which assembled in to Southwark Park. the park on 18-19 July 1900. 45 Anne Worsley (1940-2009) of Southwark Park. She was a great Labour Party campaigner for the Bermondsey politician. In Carnival when its funding was in doubt. February 1996 One of her most permanent legacies is she chaired a the Children's Centre, formerly known public meeting as the One O'Clock Club, for which she at the secured major investment in 2001. Rotherhithe In her Mayoral year 2005 Anne Civic Centre, to attended the VE Day Concert on the discuss the poor bandstand. condition of Southwark Park. Silvia Ziranek Under her leadership Southwark Performance Artist. Council's Education Committee In May 2001 subsequently approved partnership Silvia performed money to support the major Heritage RECAF: Lottery Fund restoration and MORE NEW improvement works concluded in 2002. ENCORE (TO YOU?) at the Anne Yates (1939-2008) re-opening of Liberal Party politician. the Café Gallery Over many years Anne consistently in the supported the protection and promotion park.

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