Setting a story in the Victorian Era (1837-1901) is always great fun because SO much was going on in England and the world during that time. Change was everywhere from inventions (railroads, the telegraph, sewing machines, the telephone, phonographs and gramophones, the electric light bulb, automobiles) to educational opportunities for all (free public libraries, compulsory education for children up to the age of twelve, colleges that accepted women–though these were still quite limited). In many ways this
At the time Esther would have attended, it was located at Bedford Square, in the building pictured above. Since popping over to London was impossible last year, I had to rely on the internet for details about the college. Fortunately there are many fantastic photographs online that show Bedford’s interior, including its study rooms, library, and science labs. I even found one that showed an all female cast, in costume, acting out a Greek play. Delightful! It was with these pictures in front of me that I wro
As I read about Bedford’s origins, I came across its remarkable founder, Elizabeth Jesser Reid, and I knew she needed to make an appearance in the story. Though we don’t see a lot of her, she does become very important to Esther and her future. Writing a short scene or two with Mrs. Reid was my way or saying thanks for all she did to further women’s educational opportunities. And though she looks stern in this picture (who didn’t, back then?), I imagined that she had a sense of humor and was actually quite