Abby Kelley Foster Inducted Into the National Abolition Hall of Fame And

Home , Abby Kelley, Olive Higgins Prouty

W ORCESTER W OMEN’S H ISTORY P ROJECT We remember our past . . . to better shape our future.

WWHP VOLUME 12, NO. 1 SPRING 2012 Abby Kelley Foster inducted into the National Abolition Hall of Fame and Museum By Carolyn Howe, past WWHP President The dual inductions of Abby Kelley of all women; and in every effort for Foster into the National Women’s Hall an improvement in our civilization, of Fame (October 2, 2011) and the Na- we will bear in our heart of hearts tional Abolition Hall of Fame and Mu- the memory of the trampled woman-

seum (October 22, 2011) underscore hood of the plantation, and omit no the two driving moral causes that moti- effort to raise it to a share in the vated Abby’s life: equality between the rights we claim for ourselves. sexes and the abolition of slavery – For me, going to Peterboro, New York, with full racial equality. was a poignant finale to our work begun National Abolition Hall of Fame

It was the combination of these is- in 1994 and a fitting beginning of re- Peterboro, New York sues, gender equality and racial equali- newed commitment; it was like coming ty, that inspired me, and many others, full-circle. In the 1990s, I, along with eve- to join in creating the Worcester Wom- ryone else, had a lot to learn about Abby en’s History Project in 1994, with the Kelley Foster, the abolitionist movement, INSIDE THIS ISSUE goal of commemorating, “in the year and the woman’s rights movement. The 2000,” the 150th anniversary of the very more I learned, the more I was drawn to President’s Message 2 first National Woman’s Rights Conven- Abby, a woman who viewed the liberation NAHOF cont’d from p1 3 tion, which was held in Worcester in of slave women (and men) as having October, 1850. At that first national greater moral urgency than did her own 4 convention, a suffrage resolution was and her daughter’s moral claim to full Clara Fish Roberts 5 passed, declaring that banners should equality with men. Now here I was, going proclaim “equality before the law, with- with a small group of WWHP members to Penny Colman’s book 6 out distinction of sex or color.” These Peterboro, New York, to help induct Abby WOMEN IN PRINT 2012 7 words became a motto for the WWHP. into the National Abolition Hall of Fame Abby is …. 8 and Museum (NAHOF). She had just A second resolution was a powerful been inducted into the National Women’s NO EVIL PROJECT 9 inspiration for all the hard work that Hall of Fame, after more than a decade of lay ahead as we planned for the 150th Pencil shavings... 10 advocacy by WWHP members. A white anniversary commemoration of the Annual Meeting 2011 11 abolitionist in the women’s hall of fame! only national woman’s rights conven- And now, a staunch women’s rights advo- Chamber of Commerce 11 tion that called for women’s rights cate in the abolition hall of fame! without distinction of color. MARCH IS... On Friday, October 21, 2011, Doreen MEMBERSHIP MONTH Resolved , That the cause we are Velnich drove Fran Langille and me, and met to advocate, — the claim for once we got through Albany, we drove on RENEW OR JOIN! woman of all her natural and civil a state highway over hills, into valleys, using the form on the rights, — bids us remember the mil- through little towns, and past small farms last page. lion and a half of slave women at — a landscape Abby would have travelled Thank you. the South, the most grossly many times. We connected with Mary wronged and foully outraged (Cont’d on p3) Page 2

President’s Message WORCESTER WOMEN’S HISTORY PROJECT Dear Friends of Worcester Women’s History Project (WWHPers), 30 Elm Street • Worcester, MA 01609 Spring is nearly upon us. I think it’s great timing that the first Telephone: 508-767-1852 day of spring falls in the middle of women’s history month – it’s a Website: wwhp.org • Email: [email protected] time for renewed energy and growth, taking a fresh look at your STEERING COMMITTEE surroundings, emerging from your winter shell. We’ve got plenty Dianne Bruce going on to tap into that positive energy and help you flourish as a Maureen Ryan Doyle woman making history here in Worcester. I’m honored to be taking Regina Edmonds the reins as president this year, and pleased to be able to share with Hayley Gleason you here a bit of the excitement being generated by the marvelous Louise Gleason women on our steering committee and working groups. Will this Beth Harding be the spring you get more involved? Carol Harvey This year the theme for Women’s History Month is “Women’s Kayla Haveles Education– Women’s Empowerment.” This theme resonates strongly Barbara Kohin with the vision of WWHP “to celebrate and document women’s con- Charlene Martin tributions to the history, social fabric, and culture of Worcester and C.J. Posk Barbara J. Sinnott beyond.” Hanna Solska Through programs and initiatives, we work to shine a light on Susan R. Vogel the amazing stories of local women’s involvement in work, education, health and political/community engagement — looking at EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE women of the past like Abby Kelley Foster, but also women of the Heather-Lyn Haley, President present, as highlighted in the terrific new compilation of excerpts Doreen Velnich, Vice President Mary Plummer, Clerk from some of the 200+ oral histories we’ve collected through the Kathleen Comer, Treasurer Worcester Women’s Oral History Project (WWOHP) initiative. We’re so grateful to and proud of the WWOHP co-chairs, Charlene Martin Executive Assistant: Nancy Avila and Maureen Ryan Doyle, for the success of their book in bringing [email protected] attention to these powerful stories. Be sure to read the article in this Newsletter Committee: Kara Wilson, newsletter describing the book launch event at the Library last De- Barbara J. Sinnott, Mary Plummer, cember. The WWOHP group are also planning a public workshop Hayley Gleason, Dianne Bruce for May 9 – see details on page 4. ————————————————— WWHP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable and We kick off Women’s History Month with the 9th annual educational organization incorporated in 1995 WOMEN IN PRINT event on March 7. This event is featured on with a vision “to celebrate and document page 7 with the design by new Steering Committee member Hayley women’s contributions to the history, social Gleason. Come early if you want a seat, as we’ve been known to fabric, and culture of Worcester and beyond.” pack the place! Its mission is to March is also MEMBERSHIP MONTH, so it’s time to renew your own  raise awareness of the rich history of membership and think about getting one for a friend. Membership women in the Worcester area in WWHP is a terrific choice for thoughtful women on your gift  create national recognition of lists – whether to celebrate a birthday, Mother’s Day, Administrative Worcester’s role in the history of the Professionals Day, Easter, or Equinox – especially when presented in women’s rights movement combination with the Voices of Worcester Women book. (See form

 advance the ideals put forth in the on back page.) 1850 convention that there should There’s plenty more on tap this spring. We’ve been invited to be “equality before the law, without join Abby Kelley Foster at Liberty Farm on Sat., May 19 to celebrate distinction of sex or color,” or her daughter Alla’s birthday. Watch the website for details. Abby’s ethnicity. been trailblazing on the national level this year, so you’ll want to see her while she’s here and catch up on the news of her www.wwhp.org travels far and near, including a performance in the Connecticut (Cont’d on p11)

WWHP VOLUME 12, NO. 1 In 1987, Congress declared March as National Women's History Month in perpetuity. Page 3

Abby … (Cont’d from p1)

Above photo: LYNNE McKENNEY LYDICK; Gregg Tripoli, Executive Director Onondaga Historical Associa- Unveiling of Abby Kelley Foster portrait tion, Syracuse NY; Jean Cooper, great grand-daughter of George created by artist Joseph Flores Gavin Ritchie, Newtown PA; FRAN LANGILLE and Bruce Plummer at our motel in Oneida, then drove into Hamilton for dinner and to Colgate Univer- Top: WWHP VP Doreen Velnich, WWHP Pres. Fran Langille, WWHP Clerk sity’s planetarium, where we sat surrounded by a film Mary Plummer. Seated: Carolyn Howe, who nominated AKF, and Lynne about the Mayan people’s temples and astrological McKenney Lydick, who accepted the award and who portrayed Abby Kel- ley Foster in Yours for Humanity—Abby. predictions.

On induction day, we met up with Tom and Lynne George Gavin Ritchie), the format included a presentation to McKenney Lydick at Colgate University. A large ex- represent the life and contributions of the nominee followed hibit on anti-slavery history filled the hall where the by formal nominations; at the end of the program, nomina- NAHOF hosted a morning reception. It gave me chills tors stood by sheet-draped frames and then ceremoniously to realize that everybody there was committed to pre- unveiled black and white portraits of each inductee. serving the memory of the inductees and the thou- Abby was first on the agenda, so the evening began with sands of unnamed people who dedicated and sacrificed one of the best performances I have ever seen of Lynne por- their lives to end the heinous atrocity of slavery. traying Abby in Yours for Humanity —Abby . [Yours for Hu- “Dot Willsey and the staff of NAHOF were so gra- manity —Abby was written for the Worcester Women’s Histo- cious and welcoming to us.” said WWHP then- ry Project by Carolyn Howe and Karen Board Moran.] The president Fran Langille. “I bought an Abby pin to audience was clearly moved by the performance. I was proud wear. I think Doreen bought enough Abby cards to to make the five-minute formal induction nomination. In my give to everyone who attended our WWHP annual remarks, I turned to Abby (a.k.a. Lynne); these are some of meeting! And she wiped out the NAHOF supply of the words I spoke to her: Abby pins!” Abby — we are humbled to be here in your presence, and Throughout the day, several scholars spoke about to have you witness one of our deepest missions: to have your key people or issues in the abolitionist movement. We memory, and your legacy, given the recognition•• and place were delighted to meet historian Stacey Robertson — in history that you deserve. another Abby fan — who spoke about the huge influ- You deserve this honor, Abby. But we here — and the ence Abby had in the “western” states of Ohio, Indiana, men, women, and children across this nation — also deserve and Michigan. Until hearing Stacey’s lecture, I had no to have your memory and legacy preserved. As a young teen- idea just how successful Abby had been in organizing ager passionate about the Civil Rights Movement, I needed so many women, who themselves became lecturers you, Abby! I needed to know that you, a white woman, who and organizers. Abby was, truly, the most effective worked against slavery until you dropped from sickness and organizer and fundraiser for the American Anti- exhaustion — you were also deeply committed to full racial Slavery Society. equality. I, and so many others, needed the role model of The induction ceremony took place after dinner. Abby Kelley, and do we need you now, for as you said, noth- For each of the three people being inducted (Abby ing is finished while so much is left to be done. (Cont’d on p11) Kelley Foster, Jermain Wesley Loguen, and Page 4

Voices of Worcester Women Heard at Book Launch

By Maureen Ryan Doyle The Worcester Women’s Oral History Project re- Over one hundred and fifty people cords, collects, and shares the personal and histori- jammed the Saxe Room of the Worcester cal memories of women throughout the Greater Public Library and others lined up in the Worcester community. The Project focuses on the hall and doorway to attend the book four areas that characterized the spirit of the first Na- launch of Voices of Worcester Women: tional Woman’s Rights Convention held in Worcester 160 Years after the First National Wom- in 1850: work, education, health, and politics. These an’s Rights Convention on December 6. four themes resonate strongly with today’s Central The book is the work of Charlene L. Massachusetts women, as they continue to make Martin and Maureen Ryan Doyle, Co- history in their everyday lives. Chairpersons of the Worcester Women’s Oral History Project (WWOHP), and is the result of 18 Oral History Community months of writing and research. Workshop scheduled for Since its inception in 2005 under the leadership of Linda May 9, 5:30-7:30, Worcester Public Library Burlingame Rosenlund, WWOHP has collected the oral histo- By Maureen Ryan Doyle, WWHP Steering Committee mem- ries of over 250 Worcester area women. Many of the stories ber and Co-Chair of Oral History Project (with Charlene Martin) that have been recorded and documented are of women Have you ever wondered how to conduct an oral whose voices may have been previously omitted from the history? Would you like to preserve the memories of historical record. The permanent repository for the files is the relatives for a family history? Are you a teacher who is Schlesinger Library on the History of Women in America at thinking about incorporating oral history into your the Radcliffe Institute at Harvard University. The files are classroom? If you answered yes to any of these ques- available to historians and researchers from around the tions, please join us for a free Oral History Community world. Many of the oral histories are also available on the Workshop. Presenters from the Worcester Women’s Worcester Women’s History Project website, www.wwhp.org. Oral History Project (WWOHP) will discuss many top- However, Martin and Doyle wanted to make those stories ac- ics, including proper preparation for an interview, re- cessible to an even wider audience. quired legal documents, recording devices, and tran-

As Co-Chairs of WWOHP as well as friends, they decided scription of the interview. A question and answer ses- to research the histories and excerpt many of them for their sion will follow the presentation. Authors and Co-Chairs work. The book provides a glimpse into the lives of some fas- of WWOHP, Charlene L. Martin and Maureen Ryan cinating Worcester women and is divided into five chapters. Doyle will also offer a reading from their book, Voices Four of those chapters reflect the spirit of the First National of Worcester Women: 160 Years after the First National Woman’s Rights Convention that was held in Worcester in Woman’s Rights Convention. 1850. Those chapters focus on Education, Work, Health, and For further information, please contact Charlene L. Politics/Community Involvement. A fifth chapter is entitled Martin at [email protected] or Maureen Ryan Uniquely Worcester Remembrances. The excerpts in Voices Doyle at [email protected]. of Worcester Women are from stories of women representing Voices of Worcester Women: 160 Years after the diverse ethnic, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds. First National Woman’s Rights Convention is They range in age from 18 to 103. Although each woman’s available for purchase at the Worcester Women’s His- story is truly her own, readers will find much to appreciate in tory Project, Worcester Historical Museum, Campus the sharing of their everyday lives, their goals and dreams, Store at Assumption College, Amazon.com and their challenges and successes. Whether reading about the BarnesandNoble.com. The authors are available for first female professor at a formerly all-male college, a cancer readings and book signings. You may contact them at survivor, or a motorcycle-riding nun, these stories are a snap- [email protected] and [email protected]. shot of the lives of extraordinary, ordinary women of You can also learn more at Worcester. http://voicesofworcesterwomen.blogspot.com. Page 5

Clara (Clarinda) Cramond Fish Roberts Her father, Edward Nye Fish of Bedford, Massachu- setts, had joined with twenty friends to build and 3 Sep 1876-26 Oct 1965 dismantle wood homes, transport them around the

Horn to San Francisco and then reassemble them to Introductory note from WWHP member Karen Board sell to 49ers. His share of the profits was used to Moran who moved to Arizona in 2005 — start many successful enterprises both in California Yesterday (January 14, 2012), I debuted my new and Arizona. AZ historic character Clara Fish Roberts (1876- 1965) at the AAUW Tucson luncheon to celebrate Clara, the first student to register at the Universi- AZ statehood in 1912. I always thought equal suf- ty of Arizona in September 1891, went on to teach in frage was in the 1912 AZ Constitution, but Tucson and Northern Arizona discovered it was not gained until an initia- Normal College before her mar- tive referendum passed on Nov. 5 that riage to Frederick Rob- year. Now, I'm in search of who the first erts. Among her many women voters were--especially the Mexi- accomplishments was her elec- can Americans who were gradually being tion as the first woman on the shoved aside by the newcomer Anglos. Tucson School Board in 1917- I have confirmed that Clara was the first 1919. Tucson woman to register to vote on Mon- day, March 17, 1913. It had taken the AZ Clara and her parents helped legislature until March 12 to pass the law Americanize Tucson, a presidio allowing women to register--long debating and trading center in the whether women would be required to state Gadsden Purchase of their exact age. Clara was allowed to state 1854. Clara was part of the she was "over 21". Lots more to learn… women's network which made

Clara Fish Roberts, founder of the Colle- Arizona the ninth state where giate Club of Tucson (now the American women had the elective Association of University Women), remi- franchise at the time. Clara Fish nisces on its early years from 1909- Roberts helped change her 1913. She is portrayed by Karen Board Mo- community and the role of ran, past WWHP Board member, women before and following to celebrate Arizona's centennial year of Karen Board Moran as Arizona statehood on statehood. Clara Fish Roberts February 14, 1912.

Clara's parents were among the many New WWHP GOALS: Englanders seeking adventure and economic securi- ty in the west during the mid 19th century. In 1873  identify, recognize, and mark sites important in her mother, Maria Wakefield Fish, became Tucson's the history of women’s contributions to society first professional female school teacher, but quickly  disseminate historically significant information married since there were few single Anglo women through public programming (events, symposia, in Tucson at the time. Born in upstate New York and publications) three years before the Seneca Falls Woman's Rights  facilitate the incorporation of women’s contributions within the historical record Convention, her parents migrated west to Minnesota to homestead. Her grandfather was Solomon  develop and incorporate curriculum and schol- Brown, the man widely reputed to have fired the arship related to women’s history first shot of the Revolutionary War, the "shot heard  maintain financial stability to ensure the contin- round the world", at Lexington, Massachusetts. ued capability to achieve these goals

Page 6 Launching of WWHP was October 23, 1995, on the City Hall Plaza, Worcester.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton and I admired how thoroughly Ms. Colman researched the lives of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony in Susan B. Anthony: preparation for writing the book. She uses numerous A Friendship That Changed the World quotes from letters, speeches, articles, and diary entries, Author: Penny Colman so the reader gets to hear the story of these women and their friendship in their own words, making them seem to A Book Review by WWHP member, Kara Wilson come alive. It’s hard not to get caught up in their passion

and commitment to the fight for women’s rights as the One of the highlights of the National reader sees Miss Anthony traveling tirelessly even into Women’s Hall of Fame Induction her eighties to places all over the world, bringing with Weekend in Seneca Falls, New York, her impassioned letters and speeches written by Mrs. was having the opportunity to meet Stanton to deliver at conventions. Penny Colman and attending a lecture There were many quotes from both women that were on her new book, Elizabeth Cady Stan- alternately stirring and touching, but I’d like to share one ton and Susan B. Anthony: A Friend- of my favorites. At the age of 78 in 1898, Susan B. Antho- ship That Changed the World. Among ny was outraged at a recent U.S. Congressional decision Penny Colman’s prior publications are to restrict voting rights to men in the territories won in two books about women with ties to the Spanish-American War. She also was deeply con- Worcester: Dorothea Lynde Dix and Frances Perkins. Ms. cerned that the women of the future would not pick up Colman once visited the Frances Perkins Library in the fight for women’s rights once she and Elizabeth Cady Worcester to lecture on her book about Perkins and so Stanton were gone. In a letter to Clara Berwick Colby she enthusiastically acknowledged the large Worcester con- wrote: “I really believe I shall explode if some of you tingent in her audience in Seneca Falls. young women don’t wake up and raise your voices in pro- Ms. Colman discussed her research process while writ- test...I wonder if when I am under the sod — or cremated ing the book, which included assistance from Elizabeth and floating in the air — I shall have to stir you and oth- Cady Stanton’s great-great-granddaughter, Coline Jen- ers up. How can you not be on fire?” kins, who was in the audience at the lecture. Another part I believe Susan B. Anthony would be proud to know of Ms. Colman’s research involved driving 880 miles in that organizations such as WWHP are still thriving more three days to visit important landmarks in the lives of than 100 years after her death. She is still stirring us up Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony. Ms. Col- and we are on fire to continue the work our foremothers man showed us a PowerPoint slideshow of pictures of the- started! se landmarks and she lists them at the end of the book, in For more information about Penny Colman, you can case the reader would like to have a first-hand look at the visit her website www.pennycolman.com. places mentioned in the book. Ms. Colman also men- ______tioned that she conducts tours of sites relevant to women’s history in New York City. I felt as if we were being treated to a mini-virtual tour through her PowerPoint COMMEMORATION WEEKEND presentation. TO HONOR INDUCTIONS After receiving my own autographed copy of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony: A Friendship That Mark the weekend of October 19, 2012 and join us Changed the World following the lecture, I could not wait at Colgate University and in Peterboro, New York, to begin reading. The book certainly did not disappoint. I for the Commemoration Weekend festivities to hon- appreciated how Penny Colman structured the book chronologically and that the first part (Chapters 1-8) had or Abby Kelley Foster’s 2011 induction into the the odd-numbered chapters strictly focused on Elizabeth National Abolition Hall of Fame. Lynne McKen- Cady Stanton and the even chapters about Susan B. An- ney Lydick and Carolyn Howe will run the sympo- thony. In Chapter 9, we arrive at 1851, when the two sium and participate in the panel discussion. Don’t women are introduced in Seneca Falls by Amelia Bloom- miss the honor of witnessing the unveiling of Abby’s er, so from that point onward, the book is centered www.abolitionhof.org around their friendship and collaborative work, with each banner in the Hall of Fame. chapter involving both women.

WOMEN IN PRINT Join us for an evening with three local authors!

Wed., March 7, 2012 THEA ASCHKENASE, holocaust survivor and a graduate of (Snow date: March 21) Worcester State University speaking about her memoirs 5:30 PM-7:30 PM KRISTEN P. WILLIAMS, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science at Clark University, speaking on Women and War: Gender Identity Worcester Public Library and Activism in Times of Conflict, a book she co-authored with Saxe Room Joyce P. Kaufman 3 Salem Square KRISTIN B. WATERS, Ph.D., Professor of Philosophy, Worcester Worcester, MA State University; and Resident Scholar, Women's Studies Re- Free & Open to the Public search Center, Brandeis University, speaking on her book Black Women's Intellectual Traditions: Speaking Their Minds, co-edited with Carol B. Conaway

www.wwhp.org

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Abby Kelley Foster is back and WELCOMED, Abby’s Letters at this time! Worcester Historical Museum

By Lynne McKenney Lydick

A Scholar in Residence grant was sub- On November 30, 2011 Abby Kelley mitted to the massHUMANITIES to fund a Foster was welcomed by the residents of Rev. Anderson, “Abby”, Doreen Velnich project entitled Yours for Humanity: Abby Washington, CT, Stephen Bartkus, Cura- Kelley Foster Letters. Should the grant be tor, Gunn Memorial Library and Muse- approved, Dr. William Casey King will um, and the FEMALE pastor of the Scriptural prototype” ...she was “a transcribe, edit and annotate Abby’s let- First Congregational Church, The Rev. servant of Satan in the garb of an angel ters in the Worcester Historical Museum’s Cheryl P. Anderson. of light” and her aim was “to entice collection. Professor John Stauffer Chair, American Civilization Program at Harvard As I sat in the church, perhaps in the and destroy this church.” Abby sat in will lend his expertise. At the end of this very same pew as 29-year-old stunned silence as he called her by name, cited as proof her “vile charac- six-month project, which will begin in Sep- Abby sat one tember 2012, the letters will be ready for morning in Sep- ter” as she traveled “by night and day, always with men and never with wom- the next step. Currently both online publi- tember 1840, I cation and an edited volume are being was ready to en.” He concluded by asking the con- gregation whether she should be per- evaluated. Lynne McKenney Lydick and bring her full cir- Carolyn Howe will be assisting in this cle. mitted to speak in the church. It took only a few minutes to pass a resolution exciting project. Keep your fingers I felt her presence disapproving of “the introduction of crossed! and her undying female lecturers.” spirit as holding Those words burned in Abby’s heart back my tears, I for the rest of her life. Her friend, Eliza- listened to Pastor Upcoming beth Buffum Chace, remembered “the Anderson quote the words that Rev. trembling of her voice, the quivering of Yours for Humanity-Abby Hayes had spoken 171 years prior. her lips and the tears in her eyes as she performances From Dorothy Sterling’s book, Ahead related the insults, the unkindness and of Her Time: Abby Kelley and the Poli- the cruel scandals that were heaped During the last week of Black History tics of Antislavery. (Page 117) upon her.” But stalwart Abby held a Month, Abby performed at five Worcester meeting that night though her audi- Rev. Gordon Hayes announced that he Public Schools. Four school performanc- “ ence was “small indeed” and her ad- had been asked to read a notice of a es were funded as part of Elizabeth dress “short and heavy with grief.” st meeting in which a woman would ad- Bacon’s This is MyCity!, a 21 Century Nothing stopped her, ever, neither ver- dress a mixed audience.” He quoted St. School grant program. bal nor physical harassment, from Paul, it is “a sin and a shame for wom- On March 1, Abby will appear at Veneri- speaking on behalf of her sisters and en to teach men” and added that the ni Academy for a collaborative program woman in question was a non-resistant brothers in chains. with the Academy, the Worcester Senior who advocated doctrines “which would I am overwhelmed by her courage Center and Abby’s House. This perfor- open our prisons, prevent the collection and the strength of her commitment. mance is supported in part by a grant of taxes and give unrestrained sway to She lives on as a role model of self- from the Worcester Arts Council, a local lawless violence.” He continued…from sacrifice, determination and persever- agency supported by the Massachusetts Revelation “…thou sufferest that wom- ance in the face of injustice. And in Cultural Council, a state agency. an Jezebel, which calleth herself a March, Women’s History Month, we On March 30, YFH-A will be appearing prophetess, to teach and to seduce my must remember the women upon at the Huntington Public Library, MA. This servants to commit fornication.” whose shoulders we all stand and program is supported in part by a grant “He went on …now a Jezebel had come thank them for their commitment to from the Huntington Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachu- to Washington “with brazen face” and humanity. setts Cultural Council, a state agency. “fascinations exceeding those of her

Thanks to our photographers: Bruce Plummer, Fran Langille, Roger Kohin, Lynne McKenney Lydick, Karen Board Moran, Troy B. Thompson Page 9

WWHP Women in “No Evil Project” windows looking out over the city Lamb Exhibit at the Hanover Theatre responded that the people are the city and Review by Fran Langille, past WWHP President he wanted them to “Old news” is “good news” when reporting about the view their reflections December 5, 2011, opening reception for the “No Evil as they walk along the Project” banners at the Hanover Theatre for the Per- promenade. forming Arts. Several WWHP Steering Committee In like fashion, the “No Evil Project” is a reflection of members are pictured on the banners and some were people of the city and in its own unique way celebrates on hand for the opening reception, including Jeana Ed- their diversity. Troy is quoted in an article in “Pulse monds, Beth Harding, her daughter Megan, Dianne Magazine” as saying: “The collection is a positive message Bruce and WWHP past President, Fran Langille that shows a variety of people doing good in their com- (pictured in photo below). munity.” The exhibit is the “brain child” of Troy B. Thompson, The exhibit contains sets of 250 people and includes an photographer, owner of Daedal Creations and creator of interactive 23-inch touchscreen kiosk which allows visi- the Social Web (www.socialweb.net). Troy has assisted tors to learn more about the people in the exhibit. See many local non-profits in designing and updating their the “No Evil Project” at www.noevilproject.com. websites, including WWHP’s. Now he’s blended his cre- ativity, computer skills and pho- tography to cre- “I don't believe the majority of ate the “No Evil people out there are evil or Project” and that they think others are. I launched his believe a variety of ideas and first exhibit at experiences leads to stronger, the Hanover more vibrant communities Theatre! “Why and better solutions to the not start out problems we face. We should big”, says Troy, be proud of our differences and indeed he and how we contribute to soci- has, with three ety, rather than trying to blend banners, one 13’ in.” 8” wide x 19’ 6” Troy B. Thompson high and two at Troy B. Thompson and “No Evil Project” banners, Hanover Theatre 5’ 8” wide x 19’ 6” high!! This premiere exhibit was partially funded by the Greater The Hanover Theatre seems a most fitting location Worcester Community Foundation. Donations (tax- for the premiere of this unique exhibit. The Hanover deductible) are still accepted and may be made through was re-opened in 2008 after being restored to its former the Hanover Theatre to fund and expand the project at glory at a cost of $31 million. The original Franklin www.noevilproject.com/how-help/donations. Square Theatre, built in 1904 as a vaudeville house, was

redesigned in 1926 in the “grand tradition of the most VISIONARY WOMEN……………...HERE SOMEWHERE The WWHP women in the ornate film theaters of the day” by architect Thomas display are Fran Langille, Lamb (He later designed the Boston Opera House.). It Mary Plummer, Regina Ed- became known as the “Poli Palace.” On the second level monds, Louise Gleason, lobby of the theatre, Lamb created the “promenade” Charlene Martin, Maureen and installed mirrors on the opposite wall to reflect the Ryan Doyle, Hanna Solska, images of those attending the theatre. It has been said Dianne Bruce & Nancy Avila.

that when asked why there were mirrors instead of Fran Langille & Harding family Harding & Langille Fran

March 8 is International Women’s Day. Page 10

and Olive. Milton and Katherine (Olive’s mother) were

Pencil shavings: Memoirs deeply interested in their children’s well-being and Author: Olive Higgins Prouty achievements.

Olive Higgins, who was born and raised in Worcester, MA was a 1904 Olive attended Worcester schools and went on to graduate of Smith College and after she married Louis Prouty in 1907, Smith College. At Smith she chose not to take the they moved to Brookline, MA in 1908. Olive married Lewis Prouty in “scholarly” courses –-math, history. Her love of litera- 1907; they had four children, two of whom predeceased their mother. ture and writing bloomed. She had a few friends and Her children included Olivia, Richard and Jane. Prouty wrote her last loved the solitude of “a room of her own.” A few years novel in 1951, the year of her husband's death. For the rest of her life after graduation, she married Lewis Prouty. The she lived quietly in the house in Brookline, Massachusetts, where she had moved in 1913. In old age she found comfort in her friendships, her Proutys were a prominent shoe manufacturing family charitable work, and the Unitarian church, First Parish in Brookline, from Spencer, Massachusetts. In fact, they were the which the Proutys had joined in the early 1920s. From Wikipedia leading manufacturer of shoes in the world.

A book review by Louise Gleason, WWHP Steering Committee member Olive’s struggle develops after her marriage and after she became a mother. Her “New England con- I found this book at the WWHP library. The title in- science” as described by Dr. Austen Riggs pressured trigued me. Who was Olive Higgins Prouty and what her “to do it all”, and if not, she would be a failure. could Pencil Shavings: Memoirs be about? This mind set coupled with the death of two of her chil- Olive Higgins Prouty, a Worcesterite, was a celebrated dren precipitated her depression which lasted two long author of the twentieth century. She wrote in the “pulp years. Yet with the help of Dr. Riggs, she triumphed fiction” genre. (Pulp fiction was the term given to creative with a new respect of “self.” writing of the early 1900s. It came from the low quality This was a wonderful book not only because of its paper that was used in publishing these writings. The rich family and Worcester history but also for the life books had very artistic colorful covers and were inexpen- story of Olive Higgins Prouty. sive, usually costing 10 cents.) Two of Olive’s most famous Note: Now Voyager and Stella Dallas are excellent examples of novels are Now, Voyager (1941) and Stella Dallas (1922). Olive’s literary ability and style. The stories are set and written in Both became hit movies with remakes. Stella Dallas, alt- another era. Both novels deal with the universal theme — the hough Olive never authorized its use as a radio program, mother or mother figure and daughter relationship. ______became a very popular “soap opera.”

Pencil shavings: Memoirs is described as a “remarkable document which chronicles the struggle of one of the first Yours for Humanity —Abby women who ‘tried to do it all’ — combining a successful Report by Beth Harding, WWHP Steering Committee literary career and a ‘normal’ married woman active in her member and chair of YFH-A community. It is a memoir.” So as memoirs go, some part is fact (and Olive meticulously researched her facts) and This fall was a busy one for Yours for Humanity — some of it is the influence of time on memory. Abby. The inductions of Abby Kelley Foster into the The chapters of her childhood are rich with historical National Woman’s Hall of Fame and the National Abo- information of the lives of one of the leading families of lition Hall of Fame stand in their own right as wonder- Worcester, the Higgins. She writes about who they were, ful acknowledgments for the tireless work Abby Kelley how they shaped Worcester and most importantly and in- Foster did for women’s rights and for abolition. They terestingly how they interacted with each other. Life was also show the hard work of Lynne McKenney Lydick, not ordinary. Milton Prince Higgins, her father and a New whom we greatly thank for her performances as Abby Hampshire farmer’s son, had a close relationship with and also for her endless pursuit to have as many peo- Ichabod Washburn, a Worcester industrialist and founder ple as possible know about Abby’s work and life. of WPI. Their quest to establish Worcester as a leading Abby and WWHP were introduced, re-introduced, manufacturing and education center consumed their lives seen or seen again by 3,355 people in 2011 alone! Peo- and greatly influenced the Higgins family. As a result, ple of all ages, 5 – 95, and from across the country, in- little attention was given to frivolity. By the age of sixteen, cluding CA, TX, CT, NY, RI, IL, IN, MA, MD, PA, Olive had never had a birthday party nor had the family Washington, D.C., NJ, AL, FL, and GA, (and who knows had a Christmas tree. However, there was true warmth what other states were represented at the NWHF In- and love of the Higgins children —Aldus, John, Katherine duction) for a total of 14 states and D.C.!

WWHP VOLUME 12, NO. 1 WWHP was incorporated September 27, 1995. Page 11

16th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce WORCESTER WOMEN’S HISTORY PROJECT The Breakfast Club was held Saturday, November 5, 2011, 2:00 P.M., at the Salute to Abby Kelley Foster Worcester Historical Museum. President Fran Langille November 3, 2011 opened the meeting. The minutes of the last Annual Meeting held Oct. 23, 2010, were approved, as was the The Breakfast Club rec- Treasurer’s report for fy11. The fy12 budget was ap- ognized Abby Kelley proved. Election of Officers, new Steering Committee Foster for her inductions members, and Nominating Committee members was into the National Wom- held. The results of the elections are indicated in the en’s Hall of Fame and panel on page 2. New to the Steering Committee to National Abolition Hall of Fame. In a break from serve for three years are Heather-Lyn Haley, president; “Abby” speaking Kathleen Comer, treasurer; Hayley Gleason, Louise Gleason, protocol, symbolizing Carol Harvey, Kayla Haveles, C.J. Posk. Re-elected to the this significant achievement and the impact Abby contin- Steering Committee was C.J. Posk. Re-elected as VP was ues to have, Lynne McKenney Lydick was invited to ad- Doreen Velnich; as clerk, Mary Plummer. Elected to Nomi- dress the attendees, which included 400 area professionals nating Committee: Heather-Lyn Haley, Regina Ed- and community leaders. Lynne, in period costume, spoke monds, Judy Finkel, Barbara Kohin and Fran Langille. in Abby’s words as she passionately shared “…our daugh- Following the meeting, Lynne McKenney Lydick gave ters…must enter into business…I talk an interesting and informative talk on the topic: “Abby to them, and urge them to open Kelley Foster: The Infamous and Famous.” Lynne ar- shops…when woman shall feel it is her ranged to show a clip from a video of the NWHF induc- duty to do this she will get rights…My tions in which she gave the acceptance speech. A deco- friends, I did not rise to make a rated cake congratulating Abby on her inductions into speech—my life has been my speech. Lynne the National Women’s Hall of Fame (10.1.11) and Na- Bloody feet, sisters, bloody feet have McKenney Lydick & tional Abolition Hall of Fame (10.22.11) was enjoyed. worn smooth the path by which you State Rep. Gifts from those who attended the inductions were giv- have come up hither.” Vincent A. en to Steering Committee members. Report by Linda Rosenlund, past WWHP President Pedone

President’s Message (Cont’d from p2) church where the real Abby was driven out by angry crowds in 1840. Abby … (Cont’d from p3) You’ll find us out in the community at stART on I think I speak for many women…when I say that we the Street June 3 on Green Street, quilling with the needed you in our twenties, when, like you, we were strug- kids while we’re spreading the word about Abby, the gling to find, and trust, and know the power of our women’s first national woman’s rights convention and our voices…. You simply claimed that you were equal to men, current initiatives. And planning is well underway and claimed your right to speak in public venues about the for the annual women’s history field trip, June 9, this evils of slavery.… year to the Quincy home of Abigail Adams, a bril- Your life challenges those of us "...who share your passion liant Massachusetts woman who shaped history with for equality and justice to use your life's example for her ideas and writings much like Abby Kelley Foster strength” to carry on your legacy – to do something, what- and also to the JFK Presidential Library and Muse- ever our life circumstances allow, to help create a more um for the exhibit on Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1964 equitable, just, and sorely needed compassionate society. oral history. And so, Abby, …we come here from the city you made Now is the time to waken from your winter slum- your home, Worcester, Massachusetts, to nominate you for ber. Attend an event, join a working group, get induction into the National Abolition Hall of Fame and more involved. Hope to see you out there — Museum. We are forever — yours, for humanity.

Coming up this spring with WWHP

Wed., March 7, 5:30pm—WOMEN IN PRINT 2012, Worcester Public Library—see p7

Thur., May 9, 5:30pm—ORAL HISTORY COMMUNITY WORKSHOP, Worcester Public Library—see p4

Sat., May 19, 2-5:00pm—You are invited to meet ABBY KELLEY FOSTER’S FAMILY AT LIBERTY FARM — In Worcester, celebrating daughter Alla’s 165th birthday—family activities—more info in April

Sat., June 9, day-long annual educational trip: Adams National Historical Park in Quincy and The John F. Ken- nedy Presidential Library and Museum, Columbia Point, Boston, for the new exhibit, In Her Voice: Jacqueline Kennedy, The White House Years (an oral history)—lunch at a fine Marina Bay restaurant— suggested reading: My Dearest Friend: Letters of Abigail and John Adams; First Family: Abigail and John Adams by Joseph J. Ellis; Abigail Adams by Woody Holton; John Adams by David McCullough—more info in April—Discount to members. Call 508-767-1852.

Check www.wwhp.org for event updates and area women’s NEWS AND EVENTS

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