Patrons of a historical society turned the clock back 100 years last night to commemorate the first time women were admitted to the Old Glasgow Club.
Members of the club and specially invited guests dressed in Edwardian-style clothing to re-enact the event. A century ago, the move was so bold that it caused some men to walk out in protest. Until then the club, which was established in 1900, had been the preserve of men.
It was a place where they could meet for discussions on history, as well as organise social and "smoker" evenings. Although women could attend formal outings to places such as the Isle of Bute, which were called "social intercourse" events, they were barred from full club membership.
But all that was to change on January 10, 1908, when Miss Dreda Boyd, believed to have been an active member of the suffragette movement, was introduced to the club by her uncle, Sir John Stirling Maxwell, owner of Pollok House. Also formally admitted that evening was a Mrs Helen Girvan and a Mrs Mason.
Joyce McNae, secretary of the club, said: "These women fought a good corner to join the club. Some of the gentlemen left because they were so furious that the women were brought in. They were fighting for women's rights."
And, last night, in homage to the trio, current club members re-enacted the voting, blackballing and eventual admittance of the women.
The event was hosted at the Adelaides church building in the city.
That the Old Glasgow Club today comprises nine female and one male director is an indication of how far society has come, said Anna Forrest, one of the directors.
Guests at the event last night included members of Glasgow City Council and the Old Edinburgh Club.
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