Richmond women join the war effort
The lives of many women changed dramatically during the war. The Suffragette movement had gained momentum before war began and its supporters and opponents continued to be publicly active, though efforts of both parties were now firmly focussed towards helping with war work.
The absence of men opened up new employment opportunities. On 8 May 1915 The Herald reported that, “The committee for the establishment of an organised police force has raised enough [money] to take on two ladies for two months on an experimental basis”. Another occupation suddenly available to women was Gardener at Kew. A new team of lady gardeners was established and diligently worked lengthy hours.
1914-1918 Richmond at Home and at War 