The Horsekeeper’s Daughter: A True Historical Saga
Durham, 1886. Your father is dead. Your mother and six younger sisters face destitution. You are offered the chance of a new life in Australia—alone. What would you do?
In this fascinating talk, author Jane Gulliford Lowes tells the remarkable true story behind The Horsekeeper’s Daughter. Beginning in the mining communities and rural villages of North East England, the story follows Sarah Marshall, a young County Durham farm servant who left her home in 1886 and to start a new life in tropical Queensland
Drawing on family letters, photographs and years of historical research, Jane traces a journey spanning 10,000 miles and six decades, exploring migration, hardship, resilience, love, loss and the enduring links between North East England and Australia.
A captivating tale of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances—and a powerful reminder that fact can be more fascinating than fiction.
“All prices include a venue levy and £2.70 booking fee (listed as cmsn during the checkout process) unless otherwise stated. All fees apply whether booking online, over the phone or in person at the box office.
The Tyne Theatre and Opera House box office is open for phone and in-person bookings from the 1867 Café Bar 10am-3pm Mon-Fri (or until show start if there is a performance that evening + an hour before weekend performances).
For information on accessible bookings, please click here”
Jane grew up in County Durham and has a lifelong passion for the people, places and history of North East England, as well as an obsession with the Second World War. Following a successful 25 year career as a lawyer, she published her first non-fiction book, The Horsekeeper’s Daughter in 2017 and in September 2020 followed it with “Above Us The Stars:10 Squadron Bomber Command – The Wireless Operator’s Story”. Jane is currently studying for her Masters Degree in Second World War History.
