Who was Paul Strangman Cadbury
Posted on 6th February 2025 at 11:05
The Cadbury family has been one of the most fascinating subjects of my research. Their rich history, marked by philanthropy and a strong Quaker heritage, reflects deep commitment to social responsibility and ethical business practices. While conducting research on George Cadbury –Paul's great uncle- for a separate project, I gained a profound appreciation for the family’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. Their legacy of compassion and innovation continues to inspire, making them an exceptional family to study. These values of kindness, philanthropy, and social responsibility were not only foundational to the Cadbury family but were also carried forward by later generations, including Paul Strangman Cadbury. Paul continued this legacy through his own work and contributions, embodying the same principles of service and integrity that defined his predecessors.
Paul Strangman Cadbury was a key figure in the Cadbury family business and a dedicated advocate for social reform. While his family was known for its philanthropy and ethical business practices, Paul’s journey led him to a cause that would define much of his life’s work – supporting children with cerebral palsy. His commitment to this cause was deeply personal, sparked by his daughter Margaret’s diagnosis. This blog explores how Paul’s experience as a father led him to research cerebral palsy, connect with pioneering experts, and ultimately play a crucial role in establishing better support for children with the condition.
Paul Strangman Cadbury was born to Barrow and Geraldine Cadbury on November 3rd, 1895. He grew up alongside his two sisters, Dorothy and Geraldine (known as Cherry), in a nurturing and well-supported environment. His father, Barrow Cadbury, became one of the four managing directors of Cadbury Bros Limited in 1900 following the passing of his father, Richard Cadbury. By this time, the business was flourishing, providing a substantial and comfortable livelihood for Barrow and his family.
Paul Strangman Cadbury (Source: Cerebral Palsy Midlands)
From War to Welfare: Paul’s Journey from the Front Lines to Cerebral Palsy Advocacy
As the First World War broke out, Paul joined the Friends’ War Victims Relief Committee, undergoing six weeks of training in first aid, sanitation, and field cookery before being deployed in Belgium in October 1914. By 1915, he had transitioned to the Friends’ Ambulance Unit and, at just 19 years old, found himself on the front lines in Dunkirk, evacuating wounded soldiers. It was there he met his future wife, nurse Rachel Wilson. The couple married on June 24th, 1919. Upon returning from the war, Paul settled in Birmingham with Rachel and resumed his work at Cadbury Bros Limited. By the time of the 1921 census,
at the age of 25, he was recorded as a managing director of the cocoa and chocolate manufactory, continuing his family’s legacy in the business.
Over the next 11 years, Paul and Rachel welcomed five children: Catherine, Edward, Philippa, Roger, and Henrietta Margaret- known as Margaret. It was Margaret’s birth that set Paul on the path to his lifelong dedication to cerebral palsy advocacy and social reform.
Image above: Paul Cadbury's Five Children. From Right: Catherine holding Henrietta, Edward, Roger and Philippa.
Image above: Henrietta Margaret Cadbury
At birth, Margaret experienced oxygen deprivation and subsequently developed what we now recognise as cerebral palsy. Through their personal experience, Paul became acutely aware of the lack of support and resources available for children with the condition. Determined to make a difference, he began researching cerebral palsy and soon discovered the work of Dr. Earl Carlson – a key figure in the field, as highlighted in a previous blog post.
In 1946, Paul travelled to New York on a business trip to meet Dr. Carlson. With financial backing from both Paul and Stephen Quayle – a local businessman who also had a personal connection to cerebral palsy, and who will be the focus of my next blog - and drawing on Dr. Carlson’s extensive research, the Midland Spastic Association was established.
Image above: Stephen Quayle, Isla Carlson, wife to Dr Earl Carlson and Paul Cadbury who together created our beginnings.
Paul Cadbury’s dedication to improving the lives of children with cerebral palsy left a lasting impact, and his work continues to benefit families today. His ability to turn a deeply personal challenge into meaningful action is both inspiring and a testament to the values of the Cadbury family.
Researching Paul’s life has been incredibly eye-opening for me. It’s a reminder of how one person’s determination can lead to real change, and it has deepened my admiration for the Cadbury family’s commitment to social responsibility. I hope sharing Paul’s story sheds light on his contributions and inspires others to learn more about the history of those who have shaped the world for the better.
By Laura-Leigh Thomas
5th February 2025
Tagged as: Barrow Cadbury, Birmingham History, Cadbury Family History, Cerebral Palsy Advocacy, George Cadbury, Laura-leigh Thomas, Paul Strangman Cadbury, Philanthropy, Quaker Heritage
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