Mary Lincoln Demystified – (about 40 minutes)
A discussion about the book Mary Lincoln Demystified: Frequently Asked
Questions about Abraham’s Wife will answer your audience members’ questions
about Mary. This program features a look at the author’s inspiration for gathering
and answering the questions featured in the book.
Fashionable First Lady- (about 1 hour)
A power point presentation looking at Mary Lincoln’s exquisite wardrobe and the
fashion behind the wardrobe choices she made. Also discussed are general
fashion trends for the 19th century, mourning customs, and the importance of
dress and style to the aristocracy to Victorian society.
Mary, the Quintessential Hostess – (about 1 hour)
Was Mary Lincoln a gracious hostess as reported by her sister, or the stingy
hostess described by a member of the Lincoln family? This program examines
Mary’s entertaining capabilities in Springfield and in the White House. The program includes information about recipes from Lincoln’s Table: A President’s Journey from Cabin to Cosmopolitan.
The Kentucky Todds in Lexington Cemetery – (about 45 minutes)
An entire section of the cemetery in Lexington, Kentucky was reserved for the Todd family. Who were these individuals? How were they related to Mary Lincoln? Also discussed is the history of cemeteries in America, cemetery art, and tombstone engravings.
Donna McCreary, Author and Historian 