The year 2023 marks the centenary of the appointment of Ramsgate’s (and Kent’s) first female mayor and greatest benefactor, Dame Janet Stancomb-Wills. To commemorate this, Ramsgate Working History have identified inspiring women from the town’s past whose contributions have sometimes been overlooked and lost to time. The 23 for 23 Leading Ramsgate Women are pioneers and trailblazers in civil rights, politics, business and the arts. Their legacy has shaped not only Ramsgate, but also the world we live in today.

Dame Janet Stancomb-Wills achievements are central to the 23 for 23 celebrations and Laura Probert will illustrate why she was such a commanding and influential figure in the history of Ramsgate.

As to the ‘Cilifftop Amazon’ title of this talk, it was in 1922 that the Revd Hertslet, Vicar of St George’s Church, commented that he was sure Dame Janet would have had no hesitation in leading a squadron of amazons on the East Cliff during the war, repelling any attempt at a German landing with her own hands had the need arisen.

Doors open at 6:30pm and the talk will run from 7pm to 8pm. Our room at the San Clu Hotel has full disabled access and facilities. There is also on-street unrestricted parking in the streets close to the venue.

It is free to Ramsgate Society members. Everyone is welcomed but a £3 voluntary donation will be requested from non-members. Booking in advance is essential here: https://bit.ly/DameJanetTalk