Mary Ann Gilbert was born into the wealthy and prominent Gilbert family in 1776. At the age of 6 she lost her father and when her mother passed away in 1805 Mary Ann stayed with her Uncle, Charles Gilbert, who was a very wealthy landowner in Eastbourne. In 1814 Charles passed away and left her a vast Legacy of land and properties providing she and her then husband reverted back to the Gilbert name. Mary Ann began experimenting with an innovative use of land at Beachy Head to help alleviate the pressures on the rural poor of the area. It was her work which led to the instigation of the allotment system and soil science as we know it today. More about Mary Ann Gilbert, from Wayfinder Women, here You can find also find out more on Influential Women of Eastbourne.
See also Mary Ann Gilbert, Philanthropist and Allotment Pioneer Brighton and Hove Museums.