An exhibition celebrating the lives and achievements of women connected to Barnstaple brought together stories of prisoners, business leaders and community changemakers under one roof at the weekend.
Barnstaple Town Council hosted the Breaking Boundaries: An International Women’s Day Exhibition at the Guildhall on Saturday, March 7, welcoming residents to explore the often-overlooked contributions women have made to the town and the wider North Devon area.
Running from 11am to 3pm with free entry, the exhibition highlighted the diverse experiences of local women across history. Displays explored the lives of women from a range of backgrounds, including those involved in charity work, community leadership and even stories of prisoners whose experiences form part of the area’s social history.
Organisers said the annual event aimed to showcase how the actions and achievements of women have shaped Barnstaple and influenced the development of the wider community over time.
Mayor of Barnstaple, Councillor Janet Coates, said International Women’s Day provided an opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact women have had on the town.
She said: “International Women’s Day is a chance to recognise the extraordinary contribution women have made to our town. The exhibition honours those achievements and inspires future generations.”
Lucy Scarrott, heritage and cultural manager, said sharing these stories allowed people to see local history in a broader and more inclusive way.
She said: “Sharing these stories helps us see our local history in a richer and more inclusive way. This exhibition shines a light on women whose lives shaped our community and have often been forgotten by history.”
The exhibition formed part of a wider programme of International Women’s Day activities taking place across Barnstaple, organised by several local groups to celebrate the achievements of women and encourage reflection on their role in shaping the community.
