The Manchester Schoolmistresses Association was inaugurated on 2 December 1865 as a local association for women teachers in Manchester. It was founded by Elizabeth Wolstenholme who became its honorary secretary and became a blueprint for similar organisations that sprung up in Leeds, Sheffield, Edinburgh and Newcastle upon Tyne. Anne Clough was an honorary member.[1][2]
Emily Davies was invited to address a meeting of the Manchester Schoolmistresses Board in October 1866 where she spoke about an examination 'judged by the same standard as ordinary degree examinations of the University of Cambridge [that] would truly attest to women teachers' professional competence' and only a designated women's college would provide a studious environment.[citation needed]
Crawford, Elizabeth (2003), The Women's Suffrage Movement: A Reference Guide 1866-1928, Routledge, ISBN1-135-43402-6
Wright, Maureen (2011), Elizabeth Wolstenholme Elmy and the Victorian Movement: The Biography of an Insurgent Woman, Manchester University Press, ISBN9780719081095