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The Suffragette Oak: Glasgow's Living Tribute to Women's Suffrage

A powerful living symbol in Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Park honoring the women’s suffrage movement and the fight for voting rights.

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The Suffragette Oak, located in Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow, is a symbolic oak tree planted in 1918 to commemorate the Representation of the People Act, which granted voting rights to women. This living monument honors the perseverance and progress of the women's suffrage movement in Scotland, standing as a powerful emblem of social change and historical significance.

A brief summary to The Suffragette Oak

  • Glasgow, GB
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit Kelvingrove Park early in the day for a tranquil experience around the Suffragette Oak.
  • Combine your visit with nearby cultural attractions such as Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
  • Bring a camera to capture the oak’s impressive stature and the scenic park environment.
  • Learn about the suffrage movement beforehand to fully appreciate the tree’s historical significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the Glasgow Subway to Kelvinhall station, then walk approximately 15 minutes through Kelvingrove Park to reach the Suffragette Oak. Subway tickets cost around £1.50–£3.00 depending on time and ticket type.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes, including numbers 3, 8, and 77, serve stops near Kelvingrove Park. From the stop, it’s a 10–15 minute walk to the oak. Bus fares typically range from £1.80 to £3.20.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from Glasgow city center to Kelvingrove Park takes about 10–15 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £7–£12. Taxis provide direct and convenient access but may be less cost-effective.

The Suffragette Oak location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Suffragette Oak

A Symbol Rooted in History

The Suffragette Oak was planted on 20 April 1918 in Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow, as a living monument to the women's suffrage movement. It commemorates the Representation of the People Act of 1918, a landmark legislation that granted voting rights to some women for the first time in the United Kingdom. This act marked a monumental step towards gender equality in political participation, and the oak tree stands as a lasting tribute to the activists who fought tirelessly for this cause.

The Planting and Its Significance

The tree was planted by Louisa Lumsden on behalf of various women's suffrage organizations, symbolizing the collective effort and determination of women campaigning for their rights. The choice of an oak tree, known for its strength and longevity, reflects the enduring spirit of the suffragettes. Over a century later, the tree continues to grow, embodying the progress made and the ongoing journey toward equality.

Setting Within Kelvingrove Park

Kelvingrove Park, a historic and scenic green space in Glasgow, provides a tranquil and fitting environment for the Suffragette Oak. The park’s lush surroundings enhance the contemplative atmosphere around the tree, inviting visitors to reflect on the struggles and achievements of the suffrage movement. The location also situates the oak within a broader cultural and natural heritage context, making it a meaningful stop for those exploring Glasgow’s history.

A Living Monument and Community Symbol

Beyond its historical importance, the Suffragette Oak serves as a community symbol of empowerment and social justice. It is recognized as a significant landmark in Glasgow’s cultural landscape and has been celebrated in various commemorations and events related to women's rights. The tree’s presence inspires ongoing conversations about equality and the role of activism in shaping society.

Recognition and Legacy

The Suffragette Oak has received recognition beyond Glasgow, including being highlighted in European Tree of the Year contests, underscoring its symbolic value across borders. Its story connects local history with wider movements for democracy and human rights, making it a poignant emblem for visitors interested in social heritage and environmental symbolism.

Engaging with the Site Today

Visitors to the Suffragette Oak can experience a peaceful spot within a vibrant urban park, where history and nature intertwine. The site encourages reflection on the past struggles for women’s suffrage while appreciating the living legacy that continues to grow. Educational efforts and interpretive materials often accompany the site, enriching the visitor experience with context and meaning.

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