Born: 1887 (Auckland, New Zealand)
Died: 1987 (Auckland, New Zealand)
Biography:
Pearl Howard Dawson BEM (29 April 1887 – 16 May 1987) was a New Zealand veterinarian, hockey and cricket player, and sports administrator. She played a significant role in promoting and developing women’s sports in Auckland, leaving a lasting impact on the sporting community.
Born in Auckland, New Zealand on 29 April 1887, Pearl Dawson grew up with a passion for animals and sports. She attended Wellesley Street Primary School and later went on to Auckland Grammar School. Despite her desire to become a doctor, her father opposed the idea. However, she did not let this setback deter her.
Instead, Pearl pursued her interest in veterinary science and became an apprentice to an Auckland veterinary surgeon. She worked diligently and obtained her diploma, becoming the first woman veterinarian in Auckland. Early in her career, she primarily focused on working with farm animals, but she also served as an animal inspector for the Auckland Agricultural and Pastoral Association shows and as a medical officer for the Animal Welfare Association.
While Pearl made significant contributions in the field of veterinary science, her impact on women’s sports in Auckland was remarkable. She excelled as a hockey player and eventually became the captain of the Auckland side. From 1924 to 1949, she held the position of chair of the Auckland Ladies Hockey Association. During this time, Pearl faced the challenges of a male-dominated Auckland Hockey Association.
Undeterred, Pearl and other passionate women decided to break away and establish their own sports grounds in Remuera in 1928. However, due to the economic downturn of the Great Depression, their lease on the grounds was not renewed. This setback did not discourage Pearl and her fellow female athletes. They recognized the need for a dedicated women’s sports ground and began lobbying for its establishment.
Their efforts gained support from Councilor Ellen Melville, and Melville Park in Epsom was eventually established as the official home for women’s sports in Auckland. Pearl’s suggestion led to the park being named after Councilor Melville, and it became a symbol of the resilience and determination of women in sports.
Pearl Dawson’s contributions extended beyond hockey. She was an avid cricket player and one of the founders of the Auckland Girls’ Cricket Association in 1928. Serving as the chair from 1932 to 1944, Pearl played a vital role in developing and promoting girls’ cricket in Auckland. At times, she also held the position of president within the association.
Pearl’s dedication and achievements did not go unnoticed. In the 1968 Queen’s Birthday Honours, she was awarded the British Empire Medal in recognition of her outstanding services to women’s sports in Auckland, specifically hockey and cricket. Her tireless efforts and commitment to promoting and advancing women’s sports left a lasting legacy in the sporting community.
Pearl Dawson passed away in Auckland, just after celebrating her 100th birthday. Her remarkable life, marked by pioneering achievements in veterinary science and immense contributions to women’s sports, continues to inspire generations of athletes and advocates for gender equality.
Awards:
– British Empire Medal (1968)