🌿 Two Forsyth Women in the Suffrage Movement
/Among the pages of The Suffrage Annual and Women’s Who’s Who (1913), we find two familiar names—Jean Juliana Forsyth and Helen “Lall” Forsyth.
Their inclusion in this publication places them among the women who were actively involved in shaping opportunities and rights for women in the early 20th century
Jean Juliana Forsyth (1879–1933)
Jean Juliana Forsyth was born on 8 September 1879 in Calcutta, India, the daughter of William Edwards Henniker Forsyth, a high-ranking official in the Government of Bengal. She was also the granddaughter of William Forsyth, a Member of Parliament who introduced early women’s suffrage bills in the 1870s.
Jean was active in women’s organizations. She served as an Honorary Secretary and was associated with the International Women’s Franchise movement. Her work placed her among those advocating for expanded roles and rights for women during a time of significant social change.
She later married Edward Maurice Todhunter and made her home in Sussex, England. There, she raised her family, passing the Forsyth name on to the next generation—her daughters bearing “Forsyth” as a middle name.
Jean died in 1933 and was buried in Rusper, Sussex.
Helen “Lall” Forsyth (1868-1947)
Helen “Lall” Forsyth was born in 1868 in Elgin, Scotland, the daughter of David Forsyth, Convener of the County of Elgin.
Like Jean, Helen appears in The Suffrage Annual and Women’s Who’s Who, reflecting her involvement in women’s organizations of the time. Records note her association with suffrage groups and her participation in public demonstrations, including events that brought her into direct contact with authorities during protests.
Her life reflects the dedication and courage of women who worked—often at personal risk—to advance the cause of women’s rights.
Helen died in 1947 and was buried in the Elgin Old Cemetery in Elgin, Moray, Scotland.
A Shared Place in History
Though their lives followed different paths, Jean and Helen are united by their inclusion in this important publication. Together, they represent the many Forsyth women who contributed—both publicly and privately—to the progress of their time.
Conclusion
Their stories remind us that the legacy of the Forsyth family is not only found in records and titles, but in the lives, work, and determination of its women.
As we continue to research and share these histories, we ensure that their contributions are remembered and honored.
If you’re a Forsyth descendant—or curious if you might be—consider joining the Clan Forsyth Society USA to explore your heritage!