A new exhibition telling the story of the rich history of women’s football in Hull has today (Wednesday 28 August) opened at the Streetlife Museum.
The Lionesses of Hull exhibition explores the life in football of Hull-born Carol Thomas and Flo Bilton.
Carol Thomas had a 43-year club career and played for England from 1974-1985, captaining the team for nine years. During this time, she became the first women’s international footballer to reach 50 caps and was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in November 2021.
The exhibition also touches on the life and work of Hull’s Flo Bilton, who was the co-founder of the Women’s Football League and set up the Reckitt & Colman team that Carol played for early in her career.
A specially commissioned film featuring interviews with different generations of grassroots women’s footballers in the local area exploring about how they got into it and why they play. Their experiences can also be seen within the exhibition.
Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure said: “Hull has a strong connection to women’s football and I’m delighted this exhibition showcases two of the city’s greatest talents.
“I hope it helps to inspire the next generation of local female footballers.”
Former Lioness Captain, Carol Thomas said, “Hull has a long, proud but often forgotten rich history of sporting influence and success, not just at local and national level, but also on the international stage across many sports.
“Its influence on the world of football cannot be understated as it was a Hullensian, Ebeneezer Cobb Morley, who first drafted the rules of Association Football in 1863. In the 1960’s Hull’s very own Flo Bilton set up the Hull Womens Football League and Hull has produced a number of Lionesses over their 50-year history such as Gail Boreman and more recently Jess Park.
“I am honoured and humbled that my city, through the team at Hull Museums and Gallery, has once again chosen to highlight my own achievements and contribution to women’s football across the world in their upcoming “LIONESSES OF HULL” exhibition.
“It promises to be exciting, interesting and informative, with displays of Lionesses memorabilia from yesteryear and interactive programmes.”
The exhibition is display at the Streetlife Museum until 23 February 2025. Find out more and plan your visit at www.HullMuseums.co.uk
