Marianne Woods

Marianne Woods (1781 – 1870) was an English woman who opened a girls' school in Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh in the autumn on 1809[1] and who became involved in a court case as a result of being accused of lesbianism[2] with the co-founder of the school, Jane Pirie (1779–1833).

Her accuser was Jane Cumming, a pupil of mixed race, and a granddaughter of Lady Helen Cumming Gordon, who alleged that the two women "engaged in irregular sexual practices"[3] and "lewd and indecent behaviour."[4]Jane Cumming was the first pupil to leave the school, and within forty-eight hours, all the other pupils left as well.[1][5] Lady Cumming Gordon spread rumours of these allegations and the school was forced to close in November 1810,[1] depriving Woods and Pirie, both in their 20s, of their good names and only means of support[1].

"I am utterly ignorant of what was laid to my charge and I am not conscious of anything," Marianne Woods told one mother.[5]

Marianne Woods and Jane Pirie sued Lady Cumming Gordon for libel and the case went to court on 15 March 1811.[5] Despite winning the case in 1812, the case was appealed to the House of Lords over the level of the damages, which ultimately dismissed the appeal years later in 1819.[1] The pair had successfully claimed £10,000 from their wealthy accuser. Yet they were financially ruined as they received no more than £1000 each after legal fees. [5]

Although Marianne Woods obtained employment in London, at Camden House Academy where she had previously taught,[3] Jane Pirie stayed in Edinburgh and was unable to find employment, and "possibly had a nervous breakdown."

The story of the court case was the inspiration for Lillian Hellman's 1934 play The Children's Hour.[3]