This fragment of newsreel shows The 'Famous Women' Pageant of the Women's Coronation Procession which took place in London, 17 June 1911 round Trafalgar Square, with a rally in the Royal Albert Hall. The 'famous' characters included Jenny Lind, the most celebrated soprano of her day; Victorian heroine Grace Darling and Scottish mathematician Mary Somerville, after whom Somerville College, Oxford, was named. Alas, from the camera's obstructed position (near Trafalgar Square), we don't get a clear view of the costumed marchers - though we do get a strong impression of the dense crowds, including a great many men as well as women.

Bryony Dixon

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