As part of this year’s Belfast’s Féile an Phobail Clifton House will host an event looking at the life of one of Belfast’s most formidable women in history Mary Ann McCracken.
The event titled The relevance of the life and work of Mary Ann McCracken for Belfast Today will take a look at her story and her endeavours for social justice and reform at Clifton House on Thursday July 26, the 152nd anniversary of her death.
Born in 1770 Mary Ann McCracken was the sister of liberal Presbyterian Henry Joy McCracken, a leading member of the United Irishmen Society, was executed for his role in the 1798 rebellion.
Mary Ann spent her life fighting for reform, equality and social justice. She was active in anti-slavery circles in Belfast; involved in the early women suffrage campaigns; prison reform schemes as well as a committee set up for abolishing climbing boys in chimney sweeping, she was a woman who strove to change society.
Paula Reynolds, CEO of the Belfast Charitable Society said, “The Belfast Charitable Society is extremely pleased to be part of the Féile An Phobail. This is an opportunity for those partaking in the Festival, as well as others, to hear how one woman strove against social injustice, helped the poor, ran a muslin business and took in her brother’s illegitimate daughter, defying family opposition, after he was hanged in the 1798 rebellion.
“Mary Ann McCracken is a central figure in Belfast’s history, a great philanthropist who campaigned tirelessly for the welfare of women and children and the political equality. If you are interested in the history of Belfast then you must listen to this impressive woman’s story.”
The event is FREE but booking is essential. Call 028 90 997022 to reserve your space.