Ferguson’s Gang was a collective of determined, forward-thinking women operating in the 1930s. Frustrated by increasing development across rural England, they set out to raise funds to help the National Trust protect threatened countryside and historic buildings.
Inspired by England and the Octopus by Clough Williams-Ellis, which criticised insensitive development, the group became passionate advocates for conservation. Their mission was clear: safeguard England’s green spaces and heritage for future generations.
Their fundraising efforts directly supported the purchase of important sites, helping expand the National Trust’s portfolio at a critical time.
The Mystery Behind the Masks
The gang was led by six women who operated under complete secrecy. They wore disguises, adopted pseudonyms such as Bill Stickers, Red Biddy and Kate O’Brien The Nark, and never publicly revealed their identities.
Their methods of donating money were as theatrical as they were inventive:
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Concealing Victorian coins in unexpected containers
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Wrapping £100 notes around cigars
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Hiding cheques inside small bottles
Their eccentric stunts attracted significant press attention, and they even recorded a national radio appeal to promote their cause.
Despite their playful approach, their impact was serious and long-lasting.
Places Saved by Ferguson’s Gang
Thanks to their persistence and generosity, several historic properties and landscapes were secured for the National Trust, including:
They also helped protect stretches of the Cornish coastline and supported land purchases in:
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Lake District
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Devon
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Wiltshire
Many of these areas remain some of England’s most captivating and well-loved destinations today.
Ferguson’s Gang Book
Ferguson’s Gang: The Secret Society That Saved Rural England by Polly Bagnall and Sally Beck is published by National Trust and tells the remarkable true story of a secretive group of women who helped protect some of England’s most treasured landscapes.
This fascinating biography uncovers the mystery, activism and eccentric fundraising efforts of Ferguson’s Gang — a group that played a surprising role in shaping the Trust’s early history.
The book provides a compelling insight into women’s history, grassroots activism and the early conservation movement in Britain.
If you are interested in National Trust history, rural preservation or inspiring stories of determined women, this biography is a must-read.
Explore the Places They Fought to Protect
Why not experience these historic landscapes for yourself with a stay in a beautiful Rural Retreat?
Stay in the stunning areas the women worked so hard to save and discover why protecting them mattered so much.
You can explore Rural Retreat properties in:
From dramatic coastlines to peaceful countryside retreats, these locations remain a testament to the dedication of Ferguson’s Gang.