Occupations for ladies: entrepreneurial women in Brisbane's nineteenth-century arcades

Join us for our next QSA Talk ‘Occupations for ladies’ with Dr Nicole Davis, an urban historian and the Harry Gentle Visiting Research Fellow, who will uncover the fascinating world of Brisbane’s nineteenth-century arcades and the enterprising women who shaped them.

In December 1877, the Royal Exhibition Arcade, the first of its kind in Brisbane, opened near the corner of Queen and Edward Streets. Modelled after European and British examples, arcades quickly became hubs of commerce and leisure, heralded for their sophistication and economic contribution to the growing colony. But beyond their elegant facades, these spaces were home to numerous entrepreneurial women.

While often perceived as mere shoppers, women were integral to these arcades not just as customers but as business owners and professionals. From milliners and dressmakers to fruiterers, music teachers, hairdressers, clairvoyants and even employment agents, women took charge of their own financial destinies … often without the assistance of a male relative!

This talk will introduce you to the remarkable businesswomen of Brisbane’s arcades, shedding light on their enterprises, products and services and their lasting impact on the city’s commercial landscape.

Those attending in person will have the opportunity to view original records related to the talk.

Can’t make it in person? The presentation will be available on our YouTube channel after the event.

About the researcher

Dr Nicole Davis is an urban historian and Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne. Her research interests include urban history, heritage and museums, business and retail histories, ancient world studies and community and family research. She received her PhD from the University of Melbourne in 2023. Her thesis focused on the social, economic and architectural history of Australia’s nineteenth-century arcades through a transnational lens.

She has a Masters in Museum Studies and has worked in, and consulted for, some of Australia’s biggest museums. As a professional historian, she consults on projects for academic and commercial clients, researching, writing and editing engaging written and digital outputs. She has a passion for engaging the broader community with history, curating exhibitions, giving talks and being involved in other public engagement forums.