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Esther Bruce in Fulham, London
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Esther Bruce in Fulham, London
Esther Bruce in Fulham, London. Josephine Esther Bruce (1912-1994) working-class mixed race seamstress born in Fulham, London to a Guyanese father & an English mother. In London in the 1930s she made dresses for the singer Elisabeth Welch & befriended the Jamaican nationalist leader Marcus Garvey. Co-authored her autobiography in 1991 with her adopted nephew Stephen Bourne. Included in the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. Date: circa 1913
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Media ID 32227056
© The Stephen Bourne Collection /
Born Bruce Dresses Elisabeth Esther Fulham Guyanese Josephine Mixed Race Seamstress Singer Welch Working Class Made
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures Esther Bruce, a remarkable working-class mixed race seamstress born in Fulham, London in 1912. Her heritage was a blend of Guyanese and English roots, reflecting the diverse cultural landscape of early 20th century London.
In the bustling city of London during the 1930s, Esther made dresses for renowned singer Elisabeth Welch and formed a close bond with Jamaican nationalist leader Marcus Garvey. Her talent as a seamstress and her connections within the artistic and political circles of the time speak to her dynamic personality and enterprising spirit.
Esther's life story is one of resilience and creativity, which she shared with the world through her autobiography co-authored with her adopted nephew Stephen Bourne in 1991. This intimate account offers a glimpse into the challenges she faced as a woman of color navigating society's expectations while pursuing her passion for fashion.
Her legacy lives on through historical records like this photo print, which has been included in prestigious collections such as the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. Esther Bruce's contributions to both the fashion industry and social activism continue to inspire generations to come.
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