Elizabeth Sumner Bannester

Elizabeth Sumner Bannester was born in the village of Barling, Essex in 1864. From census records her family were farmers who lived at 'The Cottage', Barling.

Some years later, Miss Bannester gained a place at London University where she studied the Arts and in 1890 was awarded a Bachelor of Arts Degree. This was very unusual for a young woman of her background a century ago. Higher education was considered inappropriate for women by mainstream society.

The 1901 census has Elizabeth Bannester listed at the head of household at 5 Avenue Road, Prittlewell and her occupation as Private School Mistress.

In 1910 Elizabeth was elected to Southend Council for the Westborough Ward - the first time a lady had been elected for the council and despite the fact that she could not vote herself.

1911 has Miss Bannester listed as the Principal of Private School at Alexandra College, Westcliff-on-Sea. The college was a private school for young ladies.

Sadly in 1914 Miss Elizabeth Bannester died on the 2nd December 1914. We know that she left £521 6 shillings as a notice for probate was posted naming Rose Brown - who was a long time friend and colleague.

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