Agnes Baden-Powell - The first Guide
Today, we celebrate the 165th anniversary of the birth of Agnes Baden-Powell, our first president of Girlguiding!
Agnes Baden-Powell was a remarkable woman who played a pivotal role in shaping the Girl Guide movement. Here are some interesting facts about her life and accomplishments:
Early life and education:
Agnes Smyth Baden-Powell was born on December 16, 1858, in Paddington, London. She was the ninth of fourteen children, and the only daughter of Reverend Professor Baden Powell and Henrietta Grace Smyth. Agnes was educated at home by her mother, while her brothers attended prestigious schools.
Adventurous childhood:
Agnes was home schooled and had an adventurous childhood. She enjoyed sports, camping, and other outdoor activities, traits that would later influence the Guide program.
Up up and away
With her brother Baden Fletcher Smyth Baden-Powell, Agnes made aeronautical balloons using silk and they enjoyed many flights together. Later she built aeroplanes with him.
Agnes was an honorary companion of the Royal Aeronautical Society from 1938 to 1945.
World War 1
In August 1914 a letter from Miss Agnes Baden Powell, encouraged Guide and Brownies to work for badges that would be useful; especially First Aid, cooking, nursing, knitting and gardening.
Co-founder of Guides:
In 1909, Agnes co-founded the Girl Guides with her brother Lord Robert Baden-Powell. The movement quickly spread worldwide, providing girls with opportunities for personal development, outdoor activities, and community service.
First president of Girlguiding:
Agnes served as the first President of the Guide movement from 1910 to 1917. Under her leadership, the organisation grew into a global force for empowering girls and young women. Agnes continued as vice-president until her death on 2 June 1945.
Visionary leader:
Agnes was a visionary leader who believed that girls could achieve anything they set their minds to. She encouraged girls to be independent, adventurous, and responsible members of society.
Promoting girl education:
Agnes was also a strong advocate for girls' education. She believed that girls should have equal opportunities to learn and grow as boys.
Writing and editing contributions:
Agnes made significant contributions to the Girl Guide movement through her writing and editing skills. She wrote numerous Girl Guide books and magazines, and she played a key role in developing the movement's curriculum.
Legacy of empowerment:
Agnes Baden-Powell's legacy is one of empowerment and social change. She inspired millions of girls to believe in themselves and their own potential.
Amazing hobbies
Agnes became an accomplished musician, playing the organ, piano and violin. Her varied interests included natural history and astronomy, and she kept bees, birds and butterflies in her home.
Agnes Baden-Powell was a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on the world. Her work with the Guide movement has had a lasting impact on the lives of countless girls and young women. She was a pioneer in empowering girls and promoting their leadership roles, and her legacy continues to inspire girls today. Diolch Agnes!
Further reading
Agnes Baden-Powell spanglefish site - Click here
Agnes Baden-Powell Wikipedia - Click here
The Agnes Baden-Powell Appreciation society FB group - Click here