England's first Lionesses from World War One are being honoured in a special exhibition at the World Cup in Kansas City, United States. Historian Steve Bolton, whose grandmother Lizzy Ashcroft was one of England's greatest players of that era, has shipped treasured memorabilia to the National World War 1 Museum and Memorial for the display.
Exhibition Details
The exhibition, called “The Beautiful Game,” is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors. Items on display include postcards, a shirt, and boots from the women who played football during and after WW1 before the Football Association banned the sport for women. The museum is located in Kansas City, where the England team is based for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Historian's Mission
Steve Bolton said: "Come hell or high water I am going to make sure the women footballers of WW1 are going to be remembered for what they did and what we forgot." He added: "It is fantastic that my US friends have honoured them in such a special way in such a special place. One day I hope to make the pilgrimage myself."
Bolton worked with military historian Clive Harris on the project. He noted that women players were media superstars over 100 years before the modern Lionesses, despite barriers. "It is somewhat of an irony that it has taken an American museum to recognise their greatness and it is my hope that this country does the same," he said.
Historical Context
During WW1, over 250 women's teams played more than 1,000 games. Englishwoman Maud Smith and the Sterling Ladies FC, known as the ‘Dagenham Invincibles’, were the greatest women’s team of the era, going undefeated through two seasons. Their picture appeared in the New York Herald, and four of their games were filmed by Pathe newsreels.
Bolton’s grandmother, Lizzy Ashcroft, made her debut in front of 30,000 spectators in 1921. "Once she finished playing she was never appreciated in her lifetime for her achievements and neither were the Sterlings," Bolton said. "My granny walked with giants. We never knew this and never really appreciated her for it."
Museum Statement
A spokesman for the museum said: "As Kansas City welcomes the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, football fans from every corner of the globe will discover The Beautiful Game, an extraordinary exhibition revealing the profound connections between the world's most beloved sport and the Great War."
