Eugenia’s philanthropic efforts were extensive and impactful. On numerous occasions, she took practical steps to alleviate the plight of the impoverished, for example contributing blankets and clothing worth £100 to the Dudley community¹, Eugenia’s generosity knew no bounds and her “purse was continuously open”². Her compassion extended to all corners, earning her admiration and gratitude from those she assisted. Among her notable contributions was her involvement in the Ladies’ Needlework Guild, where in the two years before her death, she distributed nearly 400 garments to the less fortunate.³

Despite coming from a class more suited to balls and royal occasions, Eugenia seemed more at home participating in community events and fundraisers. She frequently presided over bazaars and concerts organized to raise funds for various causes, including local schools and churches. Her presence and contributions were instrumental in rallying support and generating resources for these endeavours – and she was even known to run her own stall.⁴

In addition to her charitable work, Eugenia played a significant role in the political landscape of her time. As a founding member of the Dudley Habitation of the Primrose League, she was active in mobilising support for the Conservative Party. Her efforts culminated in the league’s success in securing victories for conservative candidates, including her husband, Brooke Robinson MP – some claimed that she had worked harder at canvassing than he did!

Dismissed by Prime Minister Gladstone at the time as a gang of “duchesses and maids-of-all-work, silly girls, or garrulous old maids”⁵, the Primrose League gave women experience in political organising, public speaking and advocacy – skills that could later be applied to the suffrage movement.⁶

Eugenia’s commitment to political activism was paralleled by her dedication to social justice. She stood in solidarity with marginalized groups, such as the chainmakers, advocating alongside her husband for their rights and fair treatment, and pledging financial assistance to strikers.

Despite these tributes, and her significant social standing, Eugenia’s name and legacy remains partially obscured by the annals of history. Although she stood alongside her husband on numerous political and social platforms, her name – “Mrs. Brooke Robinson” – is usually relegated to mere mentions in reports of their joint appearances.

As we reflect on Eugenia’s legacy, we are reminded of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women in shaping our society. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination of women who, despite facing adversity and marginalization, continue to leave an enduring impact on the world around them.

It is only fitting that we end this article with the words of Eugenia, from a rare report that directly quoted her:

“I have always been taught that it is the duty of everyone to assist those who are unable or not in a position to help themselves. The Needlework Guild endeavours to accomplish this object…

I may mention that many of the garments have been made by those who are as badly off as anyone can be, and it shows the good and kind feeling of neighbours to help each other, and how much a person can do who makes use of their spare time… From what I know, and what I hear, I am sure what I have said are the views of the people of Quarry Bank, and they will agree with me it is a much better and happier state of things to help each other than be selfish or ill-natured, caring nothing whatever for anybody.”⁷

1. County Express, Saturday 26th December 1885 2. County Express, Saturday 29^th December 1888 3. Dudley Mercury, Stourbridge, Brierley Hill, and County Express, Saturday 14th December 1889;  County Express ,Saturday 20th December 1890. 4. County Advertiser & Herald for Staffordshire and Worcestershire Saturday 30th October 1886; County Express, Saturday 1st May 1886 5. Leamington Spa Courier, Saturday 20th November 1886 6. Leamington Spa Courier, Saturday 20th November 1886 7. County Express, Saturday 20th December 1890

1. The crossing near St Augustine’s church, with Eugenia’s fountain visible to the right. Its inscription read: ERECTED BY PUBLIC SUBSCRIPTION IN MEMORY OF MRS. BROOKE ROBINSON, WIFE OF THE MOROUGH MEMBER, AS A TESTIMONY TO HER MANY ACTS OF KINDNESS AND BENEVOLENCE IN THE DISTRICT. “She stretched out her hand to the poor, Yea she reached forth her hands to the needy” September 1892.
2. Stourton Castle.
3. Beck Rogers, who plays Eugenia in our digital tour, visits her portrait at the Brooke Robinson Museum, Himley Hall.