An event celebrating women’s history and heritage in north-east Wales told the stories of factory workers, politicians, women in sport, and more.

‘Setting the Record Straight: Discovering the History and Heritage of Women in north-east Wales’ was organised in partnership between the history department at the Wrexham Glyndwr University and Women’s Archive Wales.

It was hosted at the Nick Whitehead Theatre with other breakout rooms nearby and included a variety of talks, exhibitions, and opportunities to learn more about women in Wales.

As well as Wrexham Glyndwr staff and students, members of the public were welcome to come and hear fascinating stories from the past.

These stories featured subjects ranging from Denbigh Asylum, women who worked in factories such as Courtaulds, Johnson’s Fabrics, and Graessers Salicylates, to women’s football and women who have represented the area politically in the Senedd.

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The Leader: Women's archive of Wales display Women's archive of Wales display

There were also discussion panels and films to illustrate aspects of women’s history and heritage in north-east Wales.

Chair of Archif Menywod Cymru/ Women’s Archive Wales, Dr Chris Chapman said: “The day provided an opportunity to reflect on both national and local perspectives on women’s history and heritage, through talks and exhibitions supported by local archives. 

“I would like to pay tribute to Dr Kathryn Ellis and Peter Bolton. It was tremendous to work in partnership with them for an event which succeeded in reaching out to the wider community.

“In particular, it was inspiring to hear from the students of Wrexham Glyndŵr University who drew on their own research in the locality which offered new insights into women’s history.”

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Wrexham Glyndwr’s Programme Leader of History, Dr Kathryn Ellis, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Women’s Archive Wales to the University and to see so many people attend. The focus of the day, the history of women in North East Wales, is something which has not really received much academic attention.

“Hopefully this will encourage further research into the study of women’s history in this area.”

Peter Bolton, Senior Lecturer History at Wrexham Glyndwr, added: “The day was a huge success and it was great to part of something which saw collaboration between staff, students and professional bodies.”

History student Lucy Duncan, also spoke positively about the day, adding: “Women’s history day at Wrexham Glyndwr University brought up serious issues about women being undocumented in history.

“It was fascinating learning about Welsh women and their experiences. Hopefully in the future we can research Welsh women and their impact on society. It was a brilliant day, and the outcome was incredible.”