Annie Elizabeth Helme facts for kids
Annie Elizabeth Helme (1874-1963) was a very important woman in the history of Lancaster, a city in the United Kingdom. She made history in 1932 by becoming the first female mayor of the city. Annie Helme was a widow and also a 'justice of the peace', which meant she helped with local legal matters. When she became mayor, her daughter joined her as the 'lady mayoress', helping with official duties. Interestingly, Annie Helme preferred to be called "Mr. Mayor."
Early Life and Family
Annie Elizabeth Smith was born in Bradford, England, on 18 February 1874. She grew up in a family that believed in liberal ideas. Her father, Isaac Smith, was also a mayor, serving as the Mayor of Bradford in 1883 and 1885.
Annie later married Walter C. Helme, who was a doctor. They lived in a house in Queens Square. Her brother-in-law, Norval Helme, was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Lancaster.
Fighting for Women's Rights
Annie Helme was a strong supporter of women's rights. In 1911, she helped create the Lancaster Suffrage Society. This group worked to get women the right to vote. Annie was a joint secretary for the society. They often invited important speakers, like Miss Corbett from London, to talk at their meetings.
When World War I started, Annie also focused on helping with war efforts. She joined various committees and helped organize support for those affected by the war. She was also the Secretary of a Central Committee of Ladies and became a member of the Education Committee, working to improve schools.
Leading in Local Government
Annie Helme broke new ground in local politics. In 1919, she was the first woman ever elected to the Lancaster Borough Council. She won the election for Castle Ward, even against a military man who had just returned from the war. By then, many people in Lancaster already knew her well.
She continued to rise in local government. Annie became the first woman to be an 'alderman', which was a senior position on the council. Then, in 1932, she achieved her biggest role: becoming Lancaster's very first female mayor.
