In the organizer's words:

In historical retrospect, Cologne is often portrayed as a stronghold of resistance against Prussia and imperialism in the German Empire. But Cologne was also a stronghold of colonial enthusiasm. The longing for the domination of other people and other countries was just as present here as in other parts of Germany and also inspired women. The Women's Association of the German Colonial Society was particularly active at the time and was founded nationwide in 1908. The local association in Cologne followed two years later.

In his lecture, Cologne historian and archivist Dr. Ulrich Soénius will explain the work of the Cologne branch of the Women's Association of the German Colonial Society and its role in the national-conservative middle classes.

The lecture is part of the accompanying program to the exhibition "Pioneers of Change - the First Women's Movement in Cologne", of the Historical Archive with Rhenish Image Archive, which you can still see until 22 March 2026.

Price information:

Places are limited and participation is free of charge. Registration by e-mail to anmeldungarchiv@stadt-koeln.de or by telephone on 0221/221-24455 is required.