Our Lasses – Your Inspirational Women of Whitby

For the 2024 exhibition nominations were made of famous, infamous, and otherwise significant women of Whitby. A selection was made of women to go on display from all the fabulous nominations, but  there are far more who could not be included in the space available within the museum. This page is designed to recognise the women our visitors and supporters felt worthy of inclusion, to record the remarkable achievements of women of this unique town.

If you have a woman you would like to see included on this page, please send details to enquiries@whitbymuseum.org.uk  or please write to us at Whitby Museum, Pannett Park, Whitby YO21 1RE.

Inspirational Women of Whitby suggested by our visitors

Dame Laura Knight – 1877-1970. Part of the Staithes Group of Artists.

Alice Wren – born c1822. Of St Hilda’s cottages, Abbey Plain. Left on her own after her husband, Wilkes Wren, sought his fortune in the gold fields of Victoria. Left with six children she used her entrepreneurial skills to advertise her laundry skills in the Whitby Gazette and also took in visitors and served teas.

Mary Nelson – 1886 -1970

Councillor and Chair of the Urban Council. As Chair of the council Mary officially opened the new approach road to Whitby Museum in October 1954 at the same time as two new wings, shipping and explorers, were opened at the museum.  Mary also happens to be a descendant of a smuggler who carried out his business in Saltburn, Thomas Pressick Andrew.

Mayor Nelson third from left on the steps of the Pannet Art Gallery and Museum.

Mary Nelson receives the Mayoral insignia from the Marquis of Normanby.