The Lady Lord Mayors of Norwich 1923–2017

THE LADY LORD MAYORS OF NORWICH 1923–2017 offers an entertaining and revealing insight into the diverse lives, both personal and civic, of seventeen remarkable women, who from 1923 to 2017, have each held the honour of being First Citizen of the City of Norwich in Norfolk, England. Moreover, the pioneer Ethel Colman, daughter of the mustard giant Jeremiah James Colman, simultaneously became the first female Lord Mayor of both Norwich and of Great Britain.

Amongst others, meet the war refugee from Czechoslovakia; the ‘Ten Pound Pom’; the manageress of C&A; the keen amateur actress; the Trade Unionist; the Scot from the Glasgow shipyards; the hairdresser Lord Mayor; the prison governor’s wife and the first known official consort with Down’s syndrome. Discover the civic coach, priceless regalia, traditional robes, Whifflers, Snap the Dragon and the magnificent Art Deco Norwich City Hall, opened in 1938 by King George VI and allegedly coveted by Adolf Hitler as his regional HQ if the Nazis should win the Second World War.

Using in-depth personal interviews with surviving female Lord Mayors, their colleagues, friends and family members, supported by research material from local archival sources, author Phyllida Scrivens has uncovered fascinating anecdotal stories, both joyous and tragic, many involving royalty and national figures. This book, including original photographs, delves behind the scenes of public office, discovering inspiring women determined to rise above the constraints of a hitherto patriarchal world.

This book is published in the centenary year of the Representation of the People Act when women first received the vote.