Alice Martha Bacon was born on September 10, 1909, in Normanton, West Yorkshire. Her father was both a councillor and a miner, and Alice grew up immersed in local politics and community.
Alice delivered her first speech aged 16 at Normanton Railwaymen’s Club. Elected as MP for Leeds North East in 1945, she went on to hold many important roles, including Minister of State.
Advocate for Freedom and Reform
Alice Bacon was a consistent voice in support of progressive reforms like decriminalising homosexuality and the move to allow for abortions. She also championed state schools. Alice was awarded a CBE in 1953, and in 1970 she was created Baroness Bacon.
She died on March 24, 1993 at the age of 83. As one of the first female MPs, she left an indelible mark on politics.
Baroness Bacon’s blue plaque and subsequent campaign was the pilot for our Forgotten Women project. Here is a video of the project at the time and the group’s reflections on Alice Bacon.
Alice Bacon Beer
On International Women’s Day in 2018, the Forgotten Women of Wakefield team travelled down to Westminster to unveil a Baroness Bacon Beer in celebration of Alice’s life.
Several MPs attended the event, including Rachel Reeves. Five Towns Brewery brewed the beer, which was available in the Stranger’s Bar for a week after the team’s visit. It was also available through a club in Normanton that Alice herself had opened.
Her Blue Plaque now sits proudly on Normanton Town Hall.
Free Download: Alice Bacon
Baroness Bacon lived a life of public service, using her powerful voice to inspire others and fight for progressive social values. Read more about her in our broadsheet below:
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First women celebrated with Leeds council chamber plaques since 1933