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Jessie Stephen, Maryhill’s Suffragette

11 March – 13 June, 2025

Exhibition: Maryhill Burgh Halls, 10-24 Gairbraid Avenue, Glasgow, G20 8YE,

This exhibition brings to light the remarkable story and achievements of Jessie Stephen (1892-1979), a working-class woman who became a powerful force of social change.

Born in 1893, Jessie Stephen was a fearless campaigner and one of the few working-class Scottish suffragettes that we know anything about. Growing up in Maryhill and working as a domestic servant in her early years, Jessie dedicated her life to championing workers’ rights, women’s suffrage, and social justice. Her activism extended beyond the suffragette movement, leading her to a lifelong political career as a trade unionist, councillor, and advocate for equality.

This exhibition delves into her journey from a young domestic servant in Glasgow to a national activist, highlighting her dedication to improving the lives of others until the very end. Jessie Stephen’s legacy is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice.

This exhibition was written by Women’s History enthusiast Anabel Marsh. Local to the area, Anabel is also the author and guide of Maryhill Women’s History Walk.

Thanks are owed to:

• Jessie’s great-niece Sheana for lending some objects for the display.

• Glasgow Women’s Library for the use of an image and the Jessie Stephen’s animation video.

• Govanhill Baths Community Trust for lending Ann Vance’s painting.

• Protests & Suffragette for the kind donation of a poster, a zine and playing cards – all on display in the exhibition.

Visit the exhibition

MONDAY – Friday, 10:00 – 17:00

Free entry

Maryhill Burgh Halls has wheelchair access, accessible toilets and large print materials.

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