A blue plaque has been unveiled on the London-bound platform at Ingatestone Station to celebrate Dorothy Wadham, founder of Wadham College, Oxford – and one of the most remarkable women connected to the village.
Dorothy, who was raised at Ingatestone Hall, founded the Oxford college in 1613 at the age of 75, becoming the first woman outside of royalty or aristocracy to do so. Now, her legacy is proudly recognised in the village where her story began.
IFPC would like to thank Cllr Darryl Sankey of for his efforts in bringing this project to fruition, with great support from Robert Fletcher, the long-standing station adopter.
A new history board about Ingatestone produced by Mr Fletcher was also unveiled alongside the plaque by Lord Petre, adding to the celebration of local heritage at the station.
The unveiling, held on 16 April, was conducted by Lord-Lieutenant of Essex Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst and supported by Greater Anglia. The project forms part of the Essex Women’s Commemorative Project, which celebrates inspirational Essex women who deserve wider recognition.
Special thanks to Cllr Martyn Hart for the photographs.
