Now you can celebrate 120 years of the Suffragette movement at its spiritual home

Explore the legacy of Emmeline Pankhurst and her daughters, celebrate their courage, and support the vital work of the Pankhurst Trust at our Anniversary Open Evening.

This event commemorates the momentous occasion when Emmeline Pankhurst and a group of determined women gathered at her Manchester home to lay the foundation for what would become a pivotal chapter in the fight for women’s rights.

The Pankhurst Centre, once home to the suffragette movement’s origins, will open its doors to the public for an evening filled with tours, talks, and crafts.

Emmeline Pankhurst: The Birth of a Movement

On October 10, 1903, history was made when Emmeline Pankhurst extended a call to women at her residence on Nelson Street, Manchester.

It was on this very day that the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) was born, laying the cornerstone for a movement that would become the suffragettes.

Pankhurst and her comrades voted to name their society the WSPU, emphasising its democratic nature and its commitment to political action rather than mere propaganda.

Their motto became “Deeds, not words,” reflecting their unwavering dedication to achieving tangible results in the struggle for women’s suffrage.

The Pankhurst Centre: From Parlour to Parliament

The Pankhurst Centre, formerly Emmeline Pankhurst’s home, played a pivotal role in the suffragette movement’s early days.

On the 120th anniversary, visitors will have the opportunity to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich history of the WSPU.

The evening event, which runs from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., will offer guests a unique insight into the journey from parlour meetings to parliamentary action.

Attendees will hear captivating stories about the involvement of the entire Pankhurst family in the fight for women’s right to vote.

The legacy of Emmeline Pankhurst and her daughters, Christabel and Sylvia, will be celebrated as central figures in the suffragette movement.

Moreover, the Pankhurst Centre itself, despite its historical significance, faced the threat of demolition in the 1970s

. It was a group of dedicated women who came to the rescue, taking the first steps to transform the building into a museum.

Preserving History: The Pankhurst Centre Museum

On 10 October 1987, the Pankhurst Centre was officially opened as a museum by Barbara Castle, one of the longest-serving Members of Parliament in British history.

This momentous occasion marked the transformation of a historic residence into a symbol of the suffragette movement’s enduring legacy.

The museum houses a wealth of artefacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of the suffragettes’ tireless struggle for equality.

It stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the determination of women who refused to be silenced.

An Evening of Celebration and Remembrance

The Anniversary Open Evening on Tuesday, 10 October 2023, promises to be a memorable experience.

For a ticket price of £15, guests will gain access to a diverse array of activities, including tours, talks, and the opportunity to craft a souvenir badge to take home.

The ticket also includes a glass of bubbly and a goodie bag.

It’s not only a night of remembrance but also an opportunity to support the essential work of the Pankhurst Trust.

Supporting the Pankhurst Trust

All proceeds from the Anniversary Open Evening will directly contribute to supporting the vital work of the Pankhurst Trust.

The trust is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the suffragettes and ensuring that their story continues to inspire generations to come.

Regular Visits to the Pankhurst Centre

For those unable to attend the anniversary event, the Pankhurst Centre welcomes visitors during its regular opening hours every Thursday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Entry is free, but donations are warmly encouraged to aid in the preservation and promotion of this historical landmark.

As we approach the 120th anniversary of the suffragette movement’s inception, the Pankhurst Centre in Manchester stands as a symbol of the enduring fight for women’s rights.

The upcoming Anniversary Open Evening on 10 October 2023 provides an exceptional opportunity to commemorate the bravery and resilience of the suffragettes who dared to challenge the status quo and pave the way for gender equality.

Don’t miss this chance to step into history and celebrate the indomitable spirit of those who believed that “Deeds, not words” would be their legacy.

Book your tickets now and be part of this historic occasion.

You can do that by clicking here