The Women Film Pioneers Project is fascinating online, open access database compiling what we know so far about the thousands of women in almost every country of the world who were involved in the establishment of cinema during the silent period, whether as a new medium of expression, entertainment or communication. It is housed at Columbia University–wfpp.cdrs.columbia.edu.pioneers. Information can be sorted in a number of ways, one of which is listing by country. Already posted are a few entries for British and Irish women filmmakers working in the silent period, but there are many more needing researchers willing to trawl through archives, catalogues, libraries, the internet, etc. in order to record their contributions for future understanding of the international history of cinema.
The WFPP website under the “About” button includes on the right-hand sidebar a link to “Contributors’ Guidelines” with advice on constructing and formatting your contributions. And members of the Women’s Film and Television History Network-UK/Ireland will be very glad to answer queries. If you are interested in researching one of the names below please contact christine.gledhill@gmail.com, who is keeping a list of research volunteers for UK women and will let you know if any of the names below are already catered for.
See the list of women pioneers that need a researcher.
Women's Film and Television History Network - UK/Ireland 