Poet opens project in memory of pioneer

WRITING: Dundee graduate hopes to canonise famous Scot Mary Slessor in new collection of tales and stories

A Dundee graduate has kickstarted a poetry project inspired by celebrated Scots missionary Mary Slessor.

Fiona Cartmell, who now lives in Derbyshire, has returned from a trip to Nigeria where she weaved herself into the culture to deepen her connection with Ms Slessor.

The 65-year-old grandmother travelled to the capital Lagos alone in February to research Slessor for the poetry compilation book, which will document the inspiring tales of women in history.

Like her subject, Fiona was born in Aberdeen and later moved to Dundee, where she went on to achieve an Mlitt in Creative Writing from Dundee University in 2013.

Her journey to Nigeria, however, was a stark contrast to Ms Slessor’s journey in 1876.

Mary worked in Dundee’s jute mills before setting sale for Africa, aged 28.

She became a missionary in Calabar, Nigeria, where no European had set foot before.

She immersed herself with the tribes, learning their language and earning their respect.

And she is idolised for her bravery in ending barbaric practices like killing infant twins who were believed to be cursed.

During Fiona’s own trip to Nigeria, she met a young Nigerian twin, Paul Preye Egin, who said he owed his life to Slessor.

These tales will form the basis of a poetry collection inspired by the life of the Scots pioneer.

Travelling alone to Africa was daunting for Fiona, but she said the journey was essential to show that her age is not an obstacle.

She said: “Mary Slessor was an amazing and inspiring woman so I decided to visit Nigeria – the place she loved and dedicated her life to.

“I decided to make the journey alone despite concerns from my family and friends. At the age of 65, I wanted to show that I could still do something adventurous.

“There have been many biographical books written about Mary so as someone who is mainly a poet, I wanted to find a different angle.

“My aim is to use poetry, perhaps in a performative way, to create something inspired by her journey, but weaving in the universal journeys of women.”

Fiona is set to return to Nigeria later in the year to visit Calabar, where Slessor made her mark.

It is hoped the project will be launched in Dundee on completion.

Mary has become a treasured part of Dundonian history, with several memorials throughout the city.

In January 2015, she was commemorated with a monument on the Nethergate on the 100th anniversary of her death.

Fiona Cartmell recently visited Nigeria to follow in Mary Slessor’s footsteps ahead of the project.

Mary Slessor travelled to Nigeria in 1876 and became famous for her humanitarian efforts there.