Breadcrumbs

Somerville's Jubilee

Emily Penrose’s successor was Margery Fry, who also  had a long association with Somerville, both as an undergraduate and librarian. Known chiefly as a crusader and social reformer, Margery Fry had been honorary secretary of the Howard League for Penal Reform since 1919. The Oxford Magazine welcomed the election of one “who combined intellectual distinction, a fine eloquence, and academic experience with the force of character and sympathy which the post demands”.  Her energy, passion and commitment to social concerns signalled a new chapter in life at Somerville. She encouraged undergraduates to pursue interests outside their studies (encouraging the formation of a University Dance Club), and urged them to consider careers outside the traditional “eternal schoolmarming”. 

Margery Fry was Principal for just five years, but her principalship coincided with the 1929 Jubilee and the establishment of a Jubilee Gift Fund. Somervillians and friends of the College contributed £7,200, which was put towards appointing a tutor in Greats, books for the library and structural developments.

<<Previous     Next>>