The Story of Emily Marks Centenary of Emily Hobhouse’s Death

A hundred years on from her death, the story of one of Cornwall’s most remarkable yet overlooked figures is being told in full this June.

The Story of Emily, the immersive museum in St Ive, is marking the centenary of Emily Hobhouse with a one-day celebration on Saturday 13th June. The event commemorates 100 years since the passing of the Cornwall-born humanitarian, whose work during the Second Anglo-Boer War saved thousands of lives and earned her a state funeral attended by more than 20,000 people in South Africa.

The museum, which has recently been announced as a finalist in the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, is in southeast Cornwall.

A Day of Living History

Visitors can wander through gardens filled with live Cornish music while sampling heritage South African food and drink inspired by Emily’s story. Wine tastings will be on offer from the museum’s sister Babylonstoren estate in South Africa, and for the first time, a specially curated temporary exhibition will be on display.

The exhibition features previously unseen artefacts, letters, and pivotal moments from Emily’s life, offering a deeper look at a woman whose name has remained surprisingly little known in her home country.

A ceremonial planting of an Elder tree will take place during the day, symbolising protection, renewal and remembrance. Guests will also be invited to leave a personal message on a Memory Tree, and a time capsule will be sealed to preserve the values and stories of today for future generations.

Younger visitors haven’t been forgotten. Traditional lawn games and a Victorian merry-go-round will be on hand to keep them entertained.

Entry to The Story of Emily’s award-winning War Rooms and Rectory immersive experiences is included, with guided tours running throughout the day.

Why Emily’s Story Matters

Emily Hobhouse exposed the realities of British concentration camps during the Second Anglo-Boer War. She stood firm in the face of public criticism and political hostility, branded a traitor and dismissed as “hysterical” by her contemporaries. She refused to be silenced, and her reports led to reform and the saving of thousands of lives.

Following her death 100 years ago, Emily’s ashes were carried to South Africa, where over 20,000 people gathered for a state funeral. It was the first of its kind for a woman and a foreigner.

Renowned Hobhouse researcher and biographer Elsabé Brits, who was instrumental in the creation of The Story of Emily, said: “Emily’s centenary offers a moment to pause, reflect and connect. This once-in-a-hundred years event will blend past and present to create a relaxed, summer gathering with depth and meaning to remind us of the importance of courage and standing up for what we believe in.

“Join us for an uplifting celebration while enjoying a unique day out with specially curated experiences connecting Cornwall and South Africa.”

Elsabé added: “As we reflect on Emily’s life, her words feel as urgent today as they did a century ago. She believed in truth, equality, and in humanity. In remembering her, we are reminded not only of the past; but of the responsibility we carry forward.”

Part of a Global Commemoration

The centenary event in Cornwall forms part of a wider global programme of remembrance. A major commemoration is planned at the Women’s Monument in Bloemfontein, South Africa in October 2026, the very monument Emily helped design.

The exhibition and Memory Tree will remain open from 10th to 21st June, giving visitors the chance to experience the centenary beyond the main event itself.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets go on general sale from 16th May, priced at £30 for adults and £10 for children. Annual and Neighbour Pass Holders can purchase tickets in advance for £5 from 18th April.

Full details and booking are available at www.thestoryofemily.com.