In 1938 Birmingham celebrated the 100th anniversary of the city's Borough Charter. A pageant was the main feature of the celebrations, held at Aston Park from July 11th to the 16th (because of its success, the pageant was extended to the following week, from July 18th until the 23rd). Eight episodes told the story of Birmingham from its prehistoric origins to its position as the 'hub of industrial England' and its final status as a city in its own right. It was produced by Gwen Lally (1882-1963), the first female pageant master, and thousands of residents from across the city took part