On February 27, 1693, The Ladies’ Mercury made history as the first English periodical dedicated entirely to women. Published in London by the Athenian Society, this short-lived but groundbreaking publication signaled the rising influence of women as a distinct readership in print media.

John Dunton, a London publisher, was already known for making waves in the literary scene with The Athenian Mercury, a periodical that engaged readers by answering their submitted questions on various topics, including science, religion, and personal matters. Dunton introduced a special section devoted to women’s concerns, covering love, marriage, and domestic affairs, as he noticed they had a growing female readership. The popularity of these features led to the creation of The Ladies’ Mercury, a periodical explicitly designed for women.

Each The Ladies’ Mercury issue was a double-sided sheet filled with an advice column responding to readers’ inquiries. It promised to address “all the nicest and curious questions concerning love, marriage, behavior, dress, and humor of the female sex, whether virgins, wives, or widows.” The publication was framed as a conversation, inviting women to seek guidance on personal and social matters in an era when their voices were often overlooked.

Despite its innovative approach, The Ladies’ Mercury lasted only four issues. Its final issue was published on March 17, 1693, and the reasons for its brief run remain unclear. Some speculate it risked drawing female readers away from The Athenian Mercury, leading to its discontinuation. Others suggest that while short-lived, its impact was far more significant than its duration suggested.

Legacy

In an era when male voices heavily dominated print, The Ladies’ Mercury was a bold step toward recognizing women as a readership with their concerns and interests. It was a starting point for females to have their voices heard. Later periodicals, such as The Female Tatler and The Female Spectator, followed in their footsteps, expanding women’s role as active participants in literary and cultural discussions.