Markham, Violet Rosa

Violet Rosa Markham, 1872-1959, grew up near Chesterfield and maintained links with the town throughout her life. Her independent income allowed her to devote much of her time to public service, both locally and nationally, and to travel extensively. Markham's first interest was education. She was a member of the Chesterfield Education Authority from 1899 to 1934, and in 1902, she was the founder President of the Chesterfield Settlement, an educational foundation for the local community. At the outbreak of World War I, the National Relief Fund was established to alleviate distress caused by the war. The fund dispensed aid to service families and dependents, as well as civilians. The experience of serving on the Executive Committee of this organisation left Violet Markham with a lifelong interest in reducing the effects of poverty and unemployment, especially with regard to women. In 1934, she became a member of the Unemployment Assistance Board and she also worked on the Central Committee on Women's Employment. Markham was also active politically. She stood as an Independent Liberal for the Mansfield Division of Nottinghamshire in the 1918 general election, was elected as a town councillor for Chesterfield in 1924, and served as Mayor of Chesterfield in 1927.