Gertrude Margaret Lowthian Bell was born in Washington, County Durham, England.
Gertrude Margaret Lowthian Bell was born on July 14, 1868, in Washington, County Durham, England. She was born into a wealthy and influential family which provided her with numerous opportunities for education and exploration. Her father, Sir Hugh Bell, was an industrialist and a baronet, ensuring that Gertrude had access to the best schooling available, which later played a crucial role in her illustrious career.