In the 17th century, Hackney was the centre of education for middle and upper class girls from the City of London and beyond. Referred to as ‘The Ladies’ University,’ it was here that girls were taught a variety of practical skills and artistic accomplishments.

This talk by Dr Isabella Rosner will explore the surprising number of surviving objects made in those early modern Hackney schoolrooms, and look ahead to the 18th century to explore Hackney Museum’s collection of samplers.

Dr Isabella Rosner is the curator of the Royal School of Needlework and research associate at Witney Antiques. A 2023 BBC/AHRC New Generation Thinker, Isabella hosts the successful Sew What? podcast about historic needlework and those who stitched it. A former Hackney resident, Isabella wrote her PhD on early Quaker women’s waxwork, shellwork, and needlework, much of which was made in 17th- and 18th-century Hackney.

Step back in time to explore the educational experiences of young women in 17th century Hackney. Discover the role of samplers and paper-based art in their education and the challenges they faced in pursuing knowledge. Come and learn about the history of female academies in Hackney and the impact they had on the lives of young girls. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to delve into the past and uncover the stories of these pioneering schoolgirls.