Fanny Reynolds, the first Bridport woman to win an election.

The pioneering Bridport woman we are celebrating for International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month 2024 is Fanny Reynolds (1840-1930). She was the first woman to be elected to public office in Bridport. Uncovering her story is particularly timely as 2024 has been termed the year of elections. This year, more than half the world’s population live in countries where there will be elections. So this is a very important global moment for democracy. More locally, Fanny’s achievements are part of the story of how democratic rights were gradually extended and made meaningful in Bridport over the last centuries.

Her most significant achievement was the distinction of being one of the first women to be elected on the Board of Guardians in Dorset, a position she held for many years until failing health compelled her to resign. In those early days the advent of women on public bodies was not regarded with any degree of favour.

So who was Fanny Reynolds and how did she come to stand for election?

Full Article