Celebrating 100 years of Girlguiding at the Museum of London Docklands

Here come the the Girlguides

To celebrate 100 years of guiding, the Museum of London Docklands was proud to host "Here Come The Girl Guides!", an exhibition that explored London's historic role in the largest voluntary organisation for girls and young women in the UK.

The exhibition focussed on the Guiding movement in London since the Girl Guides Association was created in 1910. Developed in partnership with Girlguiding London and South East England, the exhibition formed part of the year long centenary celebrations  throughout the UK. The exhibition included:

• 45 photographs
• Four pieces of film footage
• 53 objects and ephemera, including a 1910 electrician's badge and a limited edition Kodak Girl Guide Camera from 1931
• Personal stories

Alongside a colourful account of guiding history, old-fashioned stereotypes of cake baking and below the knee skirts were dispelled as the exhibition highlighted the relevance of guiding in today's contemporary society. Guides were able to earn a unique and specially designed limited edition badge by visiting the show.

Jim Gledhill, Curator of Social and Working History at the Museum of London, said: "With its origins in Edwardian London, Guiding has survived to remain relevant to young people in the age of the Playstation. This exhibition explored the history and changing identity of an organisation which has become part of the fabric of British youth culture. The centenary of Guiding provides a timely opportunity to reflect on a movement which has been such an influence on generations of women."

Alison Bruce, former Deputy Chief Commissioner for Girlguiding London and South East England, said: "Guiding has been an important part of the community and culture of London. Crystal Palace is, after all, the birthplace of our entire movement. Giving girls and young women the opportunity to learn and grow within a supportive environment is at the heart of Girlguiding UK. It was wonderful that the Museum of London Docklands took this ethos and created a fascinating and surprising exhibition for everyone to enjoy."

Here Come The Girl Guides! 100 years of Guiding in London opened on 26 June 2010 and ran until 31 October 2010 at the Museum of London Docklands.