ALL - Fierce Florence and Daring and Dynamic Dolley

ALL - Adult Lifelong Learning

*** Program registration and payment required ***

Fierce Florence and Daring and Dynamic Dolley
Tuesday, March 19 at 2:00 pm

Fierce Florence: The Duchess and Suffragette
Embark on a captivating journey through the extraordinary life of Florence Harding, the 29th First Lady of the United States. Born in Marion, Ohio, on the brink of the Civil War, Florence's story unfolds as a testament to her resilience, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to suffrage and women's empowerment. Florence Harding's passion for suffrage and women's empowerment sets her apart as a unique First Lady. Known as both the "Duchess" and a suffragette, she earned these titles through her avant-garde spirit and commitment to societal progress. 

Notably, Florence made history by becoming the first First Lady to cast a vote in a presidential election, a groundbreaking moment that solidified her legacy as a pioneer for women's rights. In this enlightening exploration, we provide insights into Florence Harding's multifaceted identity, unraveling the layers of a woman ahead of her time. 

Daring and Dynamic Dolley: Hostess and Hero 
Step into the captivating legacy of Dolley Madison, the esteemed "hostess with the mostest" and the 4th First Lady of the United States. Known for rescuing Gilbert Stuart's iconic portrait of George Washington during the War of 1812, Dolley's impact extends far beyond her social graces. Renowned for her hosting skills, Dolley redefined the role of the First Lady by seamlessly transitioning into the position of White House hostess during multiple presidential administrations. Dolley Madison's story is a timeless narrative of influence and admiration, marking her as one of the most beloved and memorable First Ladies in American history. Dolley Madison's legacy, charisma, conviction, and cultural preservation converge to create an enduring tale of historical significance.

This 2hr course is led by:
Stephanie Bohnak, the Director of Education and Outreach at the National First Ladies Library & Museum in Canton, Ohio, brings a wealth of experience in museum management and education. Previously she served as the Museum Education and Tour Manager at the Oberlin Heritage Center and has worked with Metroparks Toledo and the Wood County Museum where she has shown a dedication to presenting local history and marginalized narratives. Stephanie holds an MA in History and Public History from Bowling Green State University, specializing in women's history, food history, labor unions, and American enslavement. A National Association for Interpretation Certified Interpretive Guide, Stephanie excels in historical interpretation, offering captivating first-person portrayals of canal-working women and female con artists like Cassie Chadwick.

For more information and a complete course list visit https://marionlibrary.org/all.