Amy Corben-Hale’s Post

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Director of Operations - Inspiring Heritage Ltd

Our Inspiring Heritage Team at the Fleet Air Arm Museum! An impressive exhibition about pioneering women who laid the foundations for the Women's Royal Navy Service. False Beliefs Despite the common misconception that women in the 'Age of Sail' were never at sea, this exhibition demonstrates that women were actively working on board ships, serving them, and supporting naval operations long before 1917. The display showcases the presence of women on board Royal Navy ships and reveals some fascinating stories about their living conditions. Many of the women on ships in the 16th - 19th centuries were prostitutes, if they were unlucky enough to get stuck on board after the ship had left shore, or wives of men onboard. Sadly, despite experiencing the same horror as the men and performing their tasks with equal courage, they were rarely, if ever, included in a ship's muster book. Officially, they did not exist and, therefore, never received any payment or food rations afforded their male counterparts. They had to share their husband's provision or that of any of the men willing to part with their food. Until recently, the lives and labours of women on board have remained invisible. Naval historians rarely study these women, and they are seldom characterised in the media, such as films or television. It is fitting and justified that this balance is now being corrected and that the fascinating stories of these women are finally being told. #museumeducation #exhibitiondesign

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