Question: Could a college be a pioneer not just in education, but in equality itself? That’s the story of Girton College.
Girton College stands as one of the 31 constituent colleges of the University of Cambridge. It is steeped in a history of groundbreaking achievements. Girton was founded in 1869 by Emily Davies and Barbara Bodichon. It bravely opened its doors as the first women’s college in Cambridge.
Let’s step back to the 1860s. The early feminist movement was gaining momentum. Emily Davies and Barbara Bodichon met. They shared a powerful goal. They wanted to secure women’s admission to universities. Imagine the resistance they faced.
In 1865, Davies and Bodichon organized an event. With the help of Henry Tomkinson, they allowed 91 female students to enter the Cambridge Local Examination. This was a significant first step. It showed that women were capable of university-level study.
Initially known as the College for Women, Girton began its journey in Hitchin. Hitchin is a town considered a convenient distance from Cambridge and London. The location was carefully chosen. It was less controversial to start outside of Cambridge itself. The first term began on October 16, 1869. Five students began their studies.
These early students were true pioneers. In 1873, Rachel Cook, Louisa Lumsden, and Sarah Woodhead unofficially sat the Tripos exams. They were later known as “The Pioneers”. Their bravery paved the way for future generations of women.
By 1872, Girton had found its permanent home. Sixteen acres of land were purchased near the village of Girton. In October 1873, the college opened at its new location and was renamed Girton College.
Alfred Waterhouse, a renowned architect, designed the original buildings. He created the Old Wing, Hospital Wing, and Stanley Library between 1873 and 1886. The red-brick design is a classic example of Victorian architecture.
Girton faced many challenges. In the early days, women had to rely on the goodwill of university men to even take examinations. But their determination never wavered. In 1948, Girton College finally received full college status. Women were officially admitted to the University of Cambridge.
Girton continued to break barriers. In 1976, it became the first women’s college to admit men. This decision reflected a changing society and a commitment to equality. Male fellows arrived in 1977. Male undergraduates followed in 1979.
Girton College is home to the Lawrence Room. It acts as the college museum. The Lawrence Room houses fascinating collections. An Anglo-Saxon collection, an Egyptian collection, and a Mediterranean collection. The Egyptian collection includes a portrait mummy. The mummy bears the inscription Hermionê Grammatikê. It translates to “Hermione the literary lady”.
Girton College also boasts beautiful gardens. These gardens have evolved over time. In 1875, Miss Davies entrusted their development to Miss Bernard. The gardens are now home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for a rare breed of black squirrels.
Girton’s legacy extends beyond its buildings and gardens. Its alumni have made significant contributions to society. Queen Margrethe II, former UK Supreme Court President Lady Hale and HuffPost co-founder Arianna Huffington are among its notable graduates.
Girton College stands as a testament to the power of perseverance. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a leading Cambridge college, Girton has remained committed to its founding principles of education and equality. As you stand here, remember the brave women who paved the way. Their legacy continues to inspire students today.