Martha Gunn facts for kids
Martha Gunn (1726-1815) was a very famous lady from Brighton, England. She worked as a "dipper," which meant she helped people go swimming in the sea. She was so well-known that even the Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV, was a big fan of hers!
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Martha Gunn's Job
Martha's job as a dipper was quite unique. She operated a special "bathing machine." This was like a small changing room on wheels. She would push this machine into and out of the sea.
Helping Swimmers
Martha also helped people get into and out of the water safely. This job needed a lot of strength and energy. Her strong build made her perfect for this work. Martha was a dipper for about 70 years! She finally stopped working in 1814 because she became unwell.
Martha's Fame
Martha Gunn was famous not just in Brighton, but all over England. People knew her name and her work.
A "Priestess of the Bath"
One national newspaper even called her "The Venerable Priestess of the Bath". This shows how respected she was. She appeared in many engravings, which were like old-fashioned pictures. One picture even showed her stopping a French invasion with a mop!
Royal Connections
Martha was a favorite of the future King George IV. She was so well-liked by him that she could even go into the royal kitchens at the Royal Pavilion whenever she wanted. An engraving shows Martha with the future King and his friend, Maria Fitzherbet. Today, a painting of Martha by John Russell can be seen in the tea-room of the Brighton Royal Pavilion.
Martha's Life
Martha lived at 36 East Street in Brighton. Her house is still there today.
Her Final Rest
Martha passed away in 1815. She was buried in the cemetery of Brighton's oldest church, St. Nicholas' Church. Her grave has a special headstone that is protected.
Images for kids
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Martha Gunn and the Prince of Wales. Painted by John Russell
