13 Facts About Clara Mordan

Clara Evelyn Mordan was a British suffragist and benefactor to the Women's Social and Political Union and St Hugh's College, Oxford.

Clara Mordan hoped that her "last bed will be a coffin some woman has earned her living by making".

Clara Mordan's sister Ada married and had children but Clara was a lesbian who avoided marriage by expressing concern that marriage would mean surrendering the control of her money to her husband.

Clara Mordan's attentions turned to the cause of women's rights.

Clara Mordan was inspired by a lecture by John Stuart Mill in 1866, which she attended with her father.

Clara Mordan was given a lot of financial freedom by her father and she established her own home and household.

Clara Mordan heard a paper read by Annie Rogers in London about the need for better women's education.

Clara Mordan had no formal education; she is thought to have been educated at home by governesses, but she wanted to support the idea.

Clara Mordan set out with her partner Mary Gray Allen to decide the best deserving college and St Hugh's College, Oxford was identified.

Clara Mordan spoke on their behalf and attended protest meetings.

Clara Mordan was invited to Eagle House in Batheaston on 27 April 1910 to plant a holly tree.

Clara Mordan was given regular updates by St Hughs staff after she became ill, and in reply she had said that the college was one of her proudest achievements.

Clara Mordan left most of her wealth to her partner Mary Gray Allen who had shared her life.