[1] Her uncle, William Harvey, and cousin-in-law, James Simpson, were notable advocates in the early days of the Vegetarian Society.
[3] The Bible Christian Church, founded in 1809 by William Cowherd, preached against eating meat, drinking alcohol, smoking tobacco, and supported pacifism and abolition.
Brotherton was raised with these principles, and church members were instrumental in social reform, including founding the Vegetarian Society.
She served as a vice-president of the society for approximately 12 years, actively participating in its work and regularly attending its annual meetings.
[3] Brotherton contributed to her father's legacy by donating items from his collection to the Peel Park Museum and preserving extensive correspondence.