The inaugural Lionesses of the England football team are being celebrated in a unique exhibition at the World Cup. Historian Steve Bolton, whose grandmother was a prominent player for England, has transported some of his prized memorabilia to the United States. These artifacts, commemorating England’s pioneering women footballers from the World War One era, are now showcased at a museum in Kansas, the host city of the England team.
Named “The Beautiful Game,” the exhibition at the National World War 1 Museum and Memorial is expected to attract over a quarter of a million visitors. Steve expressed his determination to ensure that the women footballers of WW1 are properly remembered for their contributions, despite being overlooked in history.
Highlighting the achievements of women who played football during and post-WW1 before facing a ban from the Football Association, Steve collaborated with military historian Clive Harris to send postcards, a jersey, and boots for display at the museum. He emphasized the early prominence of female footballers who excelled at the sport despite facing numerous obstacles.
The museum’s focus on acknowledging the significant yet often overlooked role of women footballers in WW1 sheds light on notable figures like Englishwoman Maud Smith and the Sterling Ladies FC, known as the ‘Dagenham Invincibles.’ Their undefeated streak over two seasons and media coverage in renowned publications like the Daily Mirror and New York Herald underscore their impact on the sport.
Reflecting on his grandmother Lizzy Ashcroft’s legacy as one of England’s finest players post-WW1, Steve expressed pride in supporting the Kansas Museum’s tribute to the original women football superstars. With a sense of regret that such achievements were not fully appreciated during their lifetimes, Steve hopes to honor their legacy through this exhibition.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the museum’s spokesperson highlighted the significance of “The Beautiful Game” exhibition in showcasing the deep connections between football and the Great War to a global audience visiting Kansas City.
