The story behind the presidential chain of the SWVS

Continuing our series of features from the archive collection, we are currently displaying the presidential chain of the Society of Women Veterinary Surgeons (SWVS) in the Library.

The ‘chain’ comprises a green material with brass plates sewn onto it, each inscribed with the name of a SWVS president. A large, brass oval medallion reads ‘SWVS’ in filigree and green glass jewels.

The SWVS was formed in 1941 by Joan Joshua, its first president, and Margaret Bentley. Its foundation was sparked by the difficulties women veterinary surgeons faced at the beginning of WWII.

During the war, Veterinary Surgery was a ‘reserved profession’; vets didn’t have to join the fighting and could keep their jobs.

It was a different story for female veterinary surgeons, however, as they were immediately redirected to essential war work.

Miss Joshua challenged the Ministry of Labour in person and, within ten days of her complaint being lodged, the situation was rectified.

The SWVS offered women support and organised lectures for its members on topics such as exotic animal care. Educational visits were arranged too, including one to the RCVS Library, then housed in London's Red Lion Square.

In 1969, the Society set up a Trust which gave grants for professional development.

By 1989, female graduating veterinary surgeons were in the majority; with 54% of new members added to the Register of Veterinary Surgeons that year being women.

The SWVS had achieved its purpose and, just shy of its Golden Jubilee in 1990, the Society was dissolved.