Saturday 27th June 2026 to Sunday 2nd August 2026
Venue: Chawton House
Explore the remarkable life and legacy of Harriet Martineau through original letters, rare books and objects from the Chawton House collection
“My business in life has been to think
and learn, and to speak out with
absolute freedom what l have thought
and learned.”
—Harriet Martineau, Autobiography (1877)
Marking 150 years since the death of pioneering writer and social reformer Harriet Martineau, this library display explores the extraordinary life and legacy of one of the nineteenth century’s most influential women. A prolific author, journalist and campaigner, Martineau wrote on subjects ranging from politics and economics to travel, sociology and women’s education, while advocating for causes including the abolition of slavery, copyright reform and improved working conditions.
Featuring rare books and original letters from Chawton House’s collection, alongside a replica of the ear trumpet she relied upon after losing her hearing, the display reveals how Martineau challenged convention, shaped public debate and helped transform Victorian society. Discover why this remarkable writer deserves to be remembered as a pioneering voice in literature, sociology and social justice.
Included in the price of admission.