FEMINIST HISTORY: Pacifist Emily Hobhouse’s 1926 state funeral to be brought back to life in Bloemfontein
A century after the state funeral of British pacifist, feminist and humanitarian, Emily Hobhouse, in Bloemfontein, the Emily100 movement is planning to re-enact the event. The recreation, taking place on 31 October 2026, will bring new life to Hobhouse’s story and connect younger generations to an important chapter in South Africa’s history.
On 31 October 2026, the Emily100 movement will re-enact the 1926 state funeral of British pacifist, feminist and humanitarian Emily Hobhouse in Bloemfontein, South Africa. The recreation aims to educate younger generations about Hobhouse's significant role in exposing the conditions in British concentration camps during the Anglo-Boer War.
Over 650 people will participate in the procession, wearing period-appropriate clothing as they walk 600 meters to the National Women's Monument. The event will feature a march by 200 schoolgirls, a wind ensemble performance, and a speech by Jan Smuts. It will also include a new musical theatre production, exhibitions, and demonstrations of lace-making, spinning, and weaving.
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