our women of Dorset
Researchers Unearthed:
Juthwara - a 14th century Saint, from Halstock
Marina Russell - a folk singer, from Corscombe
Mary Spencer Watson - a sculptor, from Langton Matravers
An Iron Age Woman - human sacrifice, from Winterborne Kingston
Ann Winzor - a nurse at Waterloo, from Fordington
Thizra Jefford - a prisoner, from Dorset County gaol
Violet Cross - awarded a British Medal, from Hazelbury Bryan
Chrissie Squire - sent decorated eggs to France, from Chideock
Mary Frances Billington - a pioneering journalist, from Wimborne
Elizabeth Jesty - first woman to be vacinated, from Yetminster
Alice Russell - 15th century woman who bought land, from Weymouth
Hilda Coles - museum creator, from Winborne Minster
Lilian Bader - one of the first Black women to join The RAF
Our Research Team
This project wouldn't be possible without our fantastic volunteer Research Team! In March 2025, a workshop was held at the Dorset History Centre. Researchers were taught to navigate records and given training to use online archives. Since then, they have been uncovering incredible stories to give people of today an insight into some fantastic women from our county.
With thanks to: Penny Cake, Anna Doherty, Alison Fox, Caroline Powell, Maddie Duke, Barabra Jenkins, Susannah Kipling, Sue McGarel, Karen Whillier, Perwina Whitmore, Caron White, Elayne Morris, Sonia Morris and Cath Rothman.