Do join us to celebrate the launch of this major research project and its online presence.

There is a perception that from its beginnings in 1909, the Royal Historical Society has been the domain of men. Yet from the outset women have played an active role in the Society in many capacities – as members, councillors, fellows, employees, volunteers, patrons, benefactors.

The RHSV Women’s Biographical Dictionary has been established to honour the contributions made by women to the Society, particularly those who do not appear in the Australian Dictionary of Biography  or Women Australia or The Australian Women’s Register.  Where the life of a featured woman has been documented elsewhere, her entry will highlight her contribution to the RHSV.

This project has been instigated by the indefatigable Cheryl Griffin. Cheryl has done all the research thus far but we are hoping that there are more people out there interested in adding to the dictionary. Katrin Strohl, President of Coburg Historical Society and talented graphic designer, has designed the individual pages. Come to the launch and learn how you too can be involved. The dictionary will always be a work-in-progress. 

Photos above are (L to R): Mary Webster, Louise Bakewell and Mary Lyell.