Making Marks

Exactly 120 years ago, Hertha Ayrton was awarded the Royal Society’s prestigious Hughes Medal, the first and only woman in the entire twentieth century to receive this honour.

A close friend of Marie Curie, Ayrton was an electrical engineer, mathematician, physicist and inventor, as well as an active suffrage campaigner. While a student at Cambridge’s Girton College, she also founded the College’s own Fire Brigade.

Join experts at the Whipple Museum and cast members of The Cambridge First All-Ladies Fire Brigade musical to discover more about Ayrton (née Marks) and the other pioneering women who shaped the history of science at Girton.

The day will include an illustrated lecture by Dr Patricia Fara, a leading local expert on Ayrton’s life and work, alongside interactive family talks and hands-on activities exploring the contributions of women in science.

There will also be two performances of songs from The Cambridge First All-Ladies Fire Brigade, a musical created by composer Jenni Pinnock and writers Helen Arney and Brian Mackenwells, celebrating Ayrton and other notable scientists and mathematicians connected with Girton College.

Whether you’re interested in the history of science, women’s history, feminism, musical theatre, or simply looking for a family day out, Making Marks offers a creative new way to discover the women who helped shape science.

Saturday 12 September 2026
Whipple Museum of the History of Science
Part of Open Cambridge

Booking is not required; however, performances and talks have limited capacity, so please arrive early to ensure entry.