Struggle and suffrage in Swindon

As the industrial revolution and the coming of the railways transformed the Wiltshire countryside Swindon women were on the front line of change, shaping the new industrial town and transforming the old market one.

Incomers arrived from the great railway centres across the country to create a welcoming, tolerant and creative community with women's contribution at its heart.

Following the incorporation of Old and New Swindon in 1900 innovative women stepped up to the plate; women like Swindon born suffragette Edith New who challenged political conventions and Emma Noble, Swindon's first female councillor, who campaigned to improve living conditions in the town.

During two world wars Swindon women worked in the railway factory in jobs once considered beyond their strength and endurance.

This book looks at struggle and suffrage in Swindon over the years.