| Admin/Biog History | In Petherbridge's notes on this series of personal correspondence, she explains that she met Sally Backhouse (d. 2012) when teaching art at Fulham Grammar School. Blackhouse was a friend of Brigid Brophy and Iris Murdoch, who used to visit the school to talk to students. Backhouse was a writer and published 'Nine Dragons' in 1967, and 'Island Series', a Singapore guidebook in 1972.
Backhouse was married to Richard Garratt (Dick) Wilson, (1928-2011), a Sinologist, journalist and writer, together they adopted two children. |
| Description | This file includes correspondence between Petherbridge and Backhouse of a personal nature, discussing health, political views, family and friends, and travel.
Of particular note:
-letter from Backhouse, dated 27 Feb 1971, discussing her family's move to Singapore, her opinion of the country, and her health
-letter from Petherbridge to Backhouse, dated 6 Jan 1971, discussing travel; her opinions of Israel, and English politics; her time living in Devon, and at Radnor House, Surrey; and her decision to change her name by deed poll to Petherbridge
-letter from Backhouse, undated, concerning work and family life, Petherbridge's physical and mental health, and Blackhouse's writing |
| Image Caption | Letter from Petherbridge to Backhouse, dated 6 Jan 1971, discussing travel, politics, and other matters |