Partnership with Ancestry
Together in a new partnership, Historic England and Ancestry, the global leader in family history, are calling on the public to celebrate influential women of the 20th century.
Historic England and Ancestry are passionate about telling new and unknown stories from history, celebrating pioneers, activists and community leaders who have shaped England’s history. Together, through the 1921 Census of England and Wales and the National Blue Plaque Scheme, we’re shining a light on the many untold histories of women of the twentieth century. This builds on the remarkable stories of women commemorated with a National Blue Plaque such as Daphne Steele, the first Black matron in the NHS, factory manager and ceramicist Clarice Cliff, and ground-breaking theatre producer Esmé Church.
The partnership launched on June 6th 2025, at the unveiling of the National Blue Plaque commemorating Esmé Church, a pioneer of accessible theatre outside of London, in Bradford. Our partnership is already reaping rewards; thanks to our work together Esmé Church’s family was discovered and able to join us at the unveiling of the plaque commemorating her achievements.
“1 in 3 British people feel as though women throughout history haven’t received the recognition they deserve, so we believe it is time to celebrate the stories of women who helped to shape the world we live in today.
The 1921 Census of England and Wales offers a fascinating window into the lives of millions of women whose world was transformed by war, loss, and social change. That’s why we encourage everyone to explore these records – not only to trace their own family’s journey, but to rediscover and honour the hidden heroines of the early 20th century with a blue plaque nomination.”
Laura House, Family History Expert, Ancestry
Daphne Steele, Clarice Cliff and Esmé Church, all inspirational women commemorated with a National Blue Plaque who feature on the 1921 Census of England and Wales.
Daphne Steele (1927 to 2004) made history by becoming the first Black matron in the National Health Service in 1964.
The success story of ceramic designer Clarice Cliff (1899 to 1972) is rooted in the heart of the Potteries in Stoke-on-Trent.
Influential actress and theatre director Esmé Church (1893 to 1972) left a lasting cultural impact on Bradford, inspiring a generation of drama students through her theatre school.