Guest Speakers: Clare Spicer & Jill Tretheway (co-authors of "The Women of Bridgwater")

Clare Spicer and Jill Trethewey have co-authored “The Women of Bridgwater” which has just been published in the UK. Jill is a member of the SAG Writing Group and will share her experience researching and writing the biographies. Volunteering remotely is a 21st century challenge but collaborating with her cousin Clare and their volunteer editors in the UK has been very worthwhile.

“The Women of Bridgwater” uncovers the town’s history from the 1760’s to the end of the Second World War through the lives of 65 women and girls buried in the historic Wembdon Road Cemetery. Their stories span every walk of life: from workhouse inmates and brickyard labourers to teachers, shopkeepers, suffragettes, midwives, entertainers and pioneering social reformers.

Many of the issues explored, such as life in the workhouse, how the different religions regarded women, infant mortality, domestic violence, the vulnerability of women servants and emerging careers are relevant to other parts of England, not just Somerset. Since many of our ancestors came from England, the book gives an insight into the attitudes and expectations that they may have either brought with them or were escaping. The book is published by The Friends of the Wembdon Road Cemetery, in Bridgwater, Somerset.

For those joining The Writing Group for the first time and who wish to join Basecamp, please contact SAG at: admin@sag.org.au  

About The Writing Group:

Are you interested in writing about your family history but need a bit more motivation or encouragement? 

Come along to The Writing Group and work on your writing skills in a fun and supportive atmosphere. The group meets via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month and has a varied program of activities and speakers designed to help you progress your project/s - whatever style of writing you are interested in!

In addition to the group meetings, there is an optional forum utilising the Basecamp website where group attendees can discuss writing projects and share ideas between meetings. 

Come and join us, new attendees are always welcome.

Skill Level: All

Group Leads: Elizabeth Capelin & Emily Purser