Elizabeth Horsell

Elizabeth Horsell (1798 – 1874) was an English vegetarianism and teetotalism activist, and the author of an early vegan cookbook. She was married to the publisher and activist William Horsell, with whom she operated a hydropathic infirmary at Northwood Villa in Ramsgate.

Biography

Horsell was involved in the temperance movement from the 1840s and was invited to give a lecture at Dr John Lee's 'Peace and Temperance Festival'. She took part in vegetarian meetings in London, along with her husband, and gave frequent lectures both inside London, such as at the Talfourd Hotel, and further afield. Horsell moved with her husband to Ramsgate in 1846, where they intended to establish a "hydropathic boarding house".

After her husband's death, Horsell continued to take part in the vegetarian movement. She also operated an all-female boarding school, with spaces for vegetarian boarders.

Horsell died in 1874.

Publications

• The Penny Domestic Assistant. Being a Guide to Vegetarian Cookery, without the use of Animal Products or Salt; Hints on Domestic Management, Industry, Frugality, and Cleanliness; accompanied with Nature's Bill of Fare, and valuable Statistical Tables (London: Horsell, 1850)