Alice Drakoules

Alice Marie Drakoules (née Lambe; other married name Lewis; c. 1850 – 15 January 1933) was a Belgium-born British humanitarian, vegetarian and campaigner for animal welfare. She was a notable organiser and supporter of humanitarian and animal organisations, including the Humanitarian League, Animal Defence and Anti-Vivisection Society and the League Against Cruel Sports.

Life and career

Drakoules was born near Brussels to English parents around 1850. In 1876, she married William Lewis who was the managing director of the Union Assurance Company. In 1887, she founded a Band of Mercy in Weybridge. In 1891, the Humanitarian League was founded by Henry Stephens Salt with her support. The League's first meeting was held at her home and established her as the treasurer. She was not considered to have been a great speaker or writer, but was recognised as an unfailing organiser.^[1]

The Animal Defence and Anti-Vivisection Society was formed in 1906 and its executive council included Drakoules. She was a keen supporter of the society, helping it campaign for licensed slaughterhouses, humane slaughter and for an end to performing animals.^[1] Her husband died in 1907, leaving her with an adopted daughter. Her second husband, Platon Eustathios Drakoules (or Drakoulis), was a Greek socialist and ex-member of the Greek Parliament. They shared a common interest in humanitarianism.^[1] The Humanitarian League ended in 1919, but out of its end was formed, with her support, what was to become the League Against Cruel Sports.^[1]

Drakoules died at home in Regent's Park, London, on 15 January 1933.^[1]

Legacy

Four years after Drakoules' death, her friends arranged for a monument to be constructed in St John's Wood churchyard, which includes a wide range of sculpted animals.^[2]

References