Agnes Bugge facts for kids

Agnes Bugge was an English brewer who lived in the 15th century. She was born sometime before 1417 and was active until at least 1430. Agnes is especially important because she was a successful woman who ran her own brewing business during a time when it was unusual for women to be recognized for their work, especially if they were married.

Agnes Bugge: A Unique Businesswoman

Agnes Bugge stands out in history because she was a woman who independently managed her own brewery. In the 1400s, it was common for wives to help their husbands with their businesses. However, their contributions were often not recorded or credited to them. Agnes's situation was different and quite remarkable.

Her Husband's Role

Agnes's husband, Stephen Bugge, was a draper. A draper was someone who sold cloth. Because Stephen's job was not related to brewing, it became clear that Agnes was the one running the brewery. This detail helps us understand that her brewing business was truly her own.

Standing Up for Brewers' Rights

In 1419 or 1420, brewers in London had a big disagreement with the city government. To fight their case, the brewers decided to create a special fund. Stephen Bugge made the largest payment to this fund, and it was specifically noted that his contribution was for his wife's brewery. This shows how important Agnes's business was.

Women in Brewing Businesses

Many women were involved in brewing during this period. Records show that 19 out of 24 breweries involved women. However, most of these were run jointly by a husband and wife. For example, another brewer named Idonea Hatton ran her brewery together with her husband. Agnes Bugge's brewery was unique because it appeared to be the only one operated solely by a woman, even though about 80% of breweries had a married woman involved in some way.

Legal Recognition of Her Business

The law at the time often saw a married woman's property as belonging to her husband. However, Agnes's case was different. When Stephen Bugge passed away, it was legally required for him to leave Agnes's brewery to her. This shows that the law recognized her ownership and management of the business, which was a significant achievement for a woman in that era.

The Outcome of the Dispute

The money raised by the brewers, including Stephen's large contribution for Agnes's brewery, helped them win their case against the City of London. At that time, the Lord Mayor of London was a famous figure named Dick Whittington. This victory was important for all brewers in London.

Agnes Bugge's story is a great example of a strong, independent woman who ran a successful business in medieval England. Her legacy reminds us that women played vital roles in the economy, even when their contributions were not always fully recognized.