Programs and Lectures

HISTORICAL LECTURES BASED ON THE AUTHOR’S BOOKS:

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. Discussions include recipes from Lincoln’s Table: A President’s Culinary Journey from Cabin to Cosmopolitan.

PROGRAMS ABOUT MARY LINCOLN:
4. Mary’s Legacy, according to her son Robert Lincoln (1 hour)
What we know and do not know about Mary Lincoln, we can attribute to the
diligent work of her son Robert. The Lincoln Legacy fell upon his shoulders, and
he left it somewhat contradictory. It was through Robert’s work and guidance that
early historians began creating an image of Lincoln’s – both good and bad.

The Myths and Mysteries of Mary Lincoln’s Youth – (about 45 minutes)
Little is truly known about Mary Lincoln’s girlhood. A few family letters and
memories lead to stories which more often contain more myth than memory.
Mary was quick witted and quick tempered, but gentle and loving. She was
opinionated, yet gracious. Her emotions often caused mayhem in the family, yet
how much mayhem is not known. While many historians have clung to these
stories as fact, some of them are flavored with fiction.
Mary Lincoln: Presbyterian, Spiritualist, or Both? – (about 45 minutes)
While historians often discuss Mary’s interest in Spiritualism, few examine her
lifelong commitment to the Presbyterian faith. This program examines how both
developed her spiritual life and gave her the comfort she sought as a widow.

PROGRAMS ABOUT THE TODD FAMILY:

The Rebel Sister, Emilie, and the Lincolns – (about 1 hour)
When the Lincoln family visited Lexington, Kentucky in the fall of 1847, Abraham
dubbed Mary’s half-sister Emilie “Little Sister.” The two women shared a true
sisterly bond until the outbreak of the Civil War. Emilie’s visit to the White House
caused a Washington scandal and heartbreak for the Lincolns.
The Gift of Love: The Relationship between Robert Lincoln and the Todd
family – (about 1 hour)
After his mother’s death, Robert Lincoln was able to do what his mother never did

forgive and embrace the Confederate members of the Todd family. Through
letters written between the Robert Lincoln family and his Aunt Emilie Todd Helm’s
family, a relationship developed that centered on mutual family love and
forgiveness. Robert embraced the Todd’s; and then found many of them
financially depend on him.

The Todds in Lincoln’s White House – (about 1 hour)
This discussion examines the many members of the Todd family who came to
Washington looking for employment. Some were successful in their quest.
Others were not. Their presence created havoc for the Lincoln family and gave
the newspapers fodder for their gossip columns.

OTHER HISTORICAL PROGRAMS:
10. 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.

11: 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.
Fees are based on the type of program and location.