Mourning: It’s a Way of Life – (about 50 minutes)
Wearing black did not always indicate that a woman was wearing mourning.
Wearing mourning attire did not mean she was a widow. This program looks at
mourning rituals throughout the 19th century and the impact they had on
American women. Special attention is given to the mourning of Mary Lincoln.
What Mary Wished Abraham Knew: A Look at Victorian Etiquette – (about 45
minutes)
Those who lived during the Victorian era were expected to dress, eat, behave,
and speak in a certain manner. To do otherwise was considered “vulgar.” When
Mary married Abraham Lincoln, she had to polish is style and manner to impress
not only her family members, but also voters. This program describes the
expectations that society placed on its members.
First Ladies – A Position in the Making – (1 hour)
When, and why, did the term “First Lady” become popular? Who were these
women who held the position and what impact did they have on American society
and politics? This lecture answers these questions and many others about the
first 100 years of the American government.
Westward Ho! Women!! – (1 hour)
It took strength, determination, and good luck for the settlers to survive the
westward movement. Men often settled an area looking for gold, land, and
wealth. Often, they found disease, hardships, and gun fights. Women brought
education, religion, and civilization. As one man exclaimed, “When women
appear, streets grow passable, clean, and quiet and pistols are less frequently
fired.” This lecture examines the lives of several women who helped settle the
American west.
Mary Garret Hay: Torch Bearer for Women – (1 hour)
Born and raised in Charlestown, Indiana, Mary Garrett Hay developed political
interest and stood by her father’s side when he presided over meetings and
conventions. This program examines Mary’s life as she joined the temperance
movement and was a leader among suffragists as she worked alongside Carrier
Chapman Catt.
From Real to Reel – (about 1 hour)
Hollywood is known for producing good stories, but rarely are they true. This
program looks at the historical personalities behind some of the great Hollywood
blockbusters and separates truth from fiction. Movies discussed may vary but
include the historical figures of Molly Brown, the Von Trapp Family, Abraham and
Mary Lincoln, Calamity Jane, and others.
Donna McCreary, Author and Historian 