BEINGWOMAN

January 22nd

2012-01-22T19:14:00.000-08:00

Born this day in 1858, Beatrice Potter Webb, an economist, sociologist and an advocate for change for the poor and working class of Great Britain in the 19th and early 20th century. Webb's work is responsible for laws that helped change the conditions of the plight in the slums of the poor and working class. Beatrice married Sidney James Webb, who also shared in her vision of changing the conditions of the poor. Together, their research and publications educated and truly created a better world those whose economic needs that were so misunderstood. Webb's first published The Cooperative Movement in Great Britain before meeting her husband. The Webb's founded, "The London School of Economics and Political Science in 1895. Edith Abbott who took one of the Webb's classes titled it "Methods of Social Investigation". Together they also published The History of Trade Unionism and Industrial Democracy Beatrice Potter was a woman who was born to great wealth and privilege. But choose to use her means to make the Halls of Justice understand the problems of those with no voice at all. And we all deserve a voice and to make a better place for all.

On this day in 1881, Cleopatra's Needle was erected in New York City's Central Park.

January 21th

2012-01-21T16:53:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1804, Eliza Roxcy Snow Smith. As a young woman, Snow was a well regarded poet. She was baptized Mormon in 1835 and followed the Mormons across the United States finally settling in Salt Lake City, Utah. In 1845, she married Joseph Smith,Jr. as a plural wife. But, after his assassination, Snow married Brigham Young, as a plural wife. This marriage was one of convenience since she was a Church leader in the Mormon faith. Joseph Smith remained her one true love.
Snow's poetry religious in nature, was set to music and is a staple in the Mormon Hymnal.

Born this day in 1853,Helen Hamilton Gardener. A provocative writer of her time, Gardener's work raised awareness of the social justice issues of the day. She wrote and published books, pamphlets, articles from 1885 to 1900. One of her more popular writings, Sex In Brain 1888; it was a rebuttal to this statement by a prominent physician who declared "...women's brains were inferior to men's brains because they were smaller." In 1920, President Wilson appointed Gardener to United States Civil Service Commission, she was the first woman to hold a high office in the U.S. government.
From Men,Women, and Gods "Nothing gives me more pleasure, nothing gives greater promise for the future, than the fact that woman is achieving intellectual and physical liberty. It is refreshing to know that here, in our country, there are
thousands of women who think and express their own thoughts--who are thoroughly free and thoroughly conscientious--who have neither been narrowed nor corrupted by a heartless creed--who do not worship a being in heaven whom they would shudderingly loathe on earth. Women who do not stand before the altar of a cruel faith with downcast eyes of timid acquiescence, and pay to impudent authority the tribute of a thoughtless yes. They are no longer satisfied with being told. They examine for
themselves. They have ceased to be the prisoners of society--the satisfied serfs of husbands or the echoes of priests. They demand the rights that naturally belong to intelligent human beings. If wives, they wish to be the equals of husbands--if mothers, they wish to rear their children in the atmosphere of love, liberty and philosophy. They believe that woman can discharge all her duties without the aid of superstition,and preserve all that is true, pure and tender without sacrificing in
the temple of absurdity the convictions of the soul."

In 1908 New York outlawed smoking by women.

Another Snow was born this day in 1922. Jade Snow Wong. A ceramic artist and biographer. Her ceramic work was visionary capturing the pure lines of modernism in clay and enameling. Wong autobiography, Fifth Chinese Daughter was published in 1950.

January 20th

2012-01-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

Born this day in 1877, Ruth St. Denis, a pioneer of American Modern Dance. Co-founder of "Denishawn Dance Company" with husband, Ted Shawn. Their students read like a "who's who of modern dance", Martha Graham, Charles Weidman, and Dois Humphreys to name drop a few. St. Denis popularized modern dance as a performing art. She also helped create the first dance program in the United States in 1938 at Adelphi University. St. Denis began her career as a Dime Dancer(slang leg dancers) and Vaudevillein 1892. With the dawn of a new century beginning, St. Denis concepts of modern dance were influenced by the Eastern tradition of dance, Indian, Egyptian, Japanese, Mythology and Mysticism. One of her more famous dance, Radha was based in Indian culture,it was also known as The Dance of the Five Senses .(as seen in the above photographs) Ruth St. Denis was an amazing artist. She was inducted into the National Museum of Dance, C. V. Whitney Hall Of Fame in 1987.

On this day in 1949, J. Edgar Hoover gave Shirley Temple a tear gas fountain pen!

On this day in 1869, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, became the first woman to testify before Congress. (A leader in the Suffrage Movement)

January 19th

2012-01-19T13:53:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1897, Winifred Shaugnessy, who became, Natacha Rambova. Ballet dancer, set designer, costume designer for stage and film and...she was Rudolph Valentino's second wife! As a set and costume designer, she was an innovator, bringing Art Deco,and Nouveau to Hollywood with her style. Rambova worked on over 15 films all during the silent film era, to name a few titles Salome, A Doll's House, and The Woman God Forgot. Rambova's work is amazing and she was beautiful, no wonder the silent film idol fell in love with this talented beauty. But, the marriage didn't last Rambova wanted to control Valentino's film career by getting him to turn down the screen idol characters. Oh well.

On this day in 1966, Indira Gandhi was elected Prime Minster of India. Gandhi remained Prime Minster until 1977 and then re-elected in 1980 to the office again and remained until her assassination in October 1984. Gandhi was the longest term female Prime Minster in the world. She changed the face of India.

January 18th

2012-01-18T11:46:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1898, not October 18th,1900. Austrian actor Lotte Lenya. Best known for her collaboration with husband Kurt Weill in which she created the role Jenny Diver in "The Threepenny Opera" or" The Beggar's Opera" this role won her the Tony in 1956. Lenya worked in film creating many memorable roles like the female Bond villain in,"From Russia With Love" Lenya was also nominated for best supporting female actor, "The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone".
Listen to the voice, Lotte Lenya.

On this day in 293, Saint Susanna, Saint Thecla, and Saint Archelais, three young girls who fled Nola, Italy to escape persecution of their faith. They were captured, arrested, tortured and then beheaded in the city of Salerno, Itlay

January 17th

2012-01-17T14:58:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday, First Lady Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama!

Born this day in 1814, English author, Ellen Price Wood. Wood began her career by writing stories for the magazines, Bentley's Miscellany and Colburn's. East Lynne was Wood's first novel, published in 1861. To say this novel was successful would be an understatement. It was translated into many languages and Leo Tolstoy journaled ,"Reading Mrs. Wood's wonderful novel In The Maze." The novel was adapted to the stage at least nine times and a 1931 screen adaptation was nominated for Best Picture that year. Wood wrote over 30 novels in her lifetime. In 1867, she launched the magazine Argosy. Wood used this publication to introduce new stories for which her public hungered. Wood remained editor of Argosy until her death in 1887.

This is the final paragraph of Mrs. Wood's obituary as it appeared in The Times:
"Of late years Mrs. Wood's health had been somewhat precarious, and she led a very retired life, almost restricted to the intercourse of intimate friends or relations. A sharp attack of bronchitis during the severe weather that followed Christmas completely prostrated her, and nothing but her indomitable will and natural energy permitted hope of her recovery. The sudden change at the beginning of the week was fatal to her, and she passed away about 4 o'clock on Thursday morning. Mrs Wood leaves behind her several sons, one of whom inherits the literary tendencies of his mother, and a daughter. Mrs. Wood's pen was active up to the last, and we believe that among her papers are two complete unpublished stories."

Now, to find her lesser-known novels or stage a new production of East Lynne!

Born this day in 1922, the grand and glorious actor, Betty White! We know her work from the television series, "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" during the 1970's to "The Golden Girls" of the 1980's and in May of 2010, at age 88, White hosted "Saturday Night Live"; their oldest host to date. It would remiss to not mention White's advocacy for animals. So Happy Birthday, Betty White. Thank you!

January 16th

2012-01-16T10:14:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1932, Dian Fossey. A primatologist. Fossey's study of gorillas changed our perception of primates. She observed gorillas in their environment and it was her life mission to save these amazing beings. Fossey was fierce in her protection of the gorillas. In 1985, Fossey was brutally murdered in the same way that her beloved gorillas were killed for trade. Go to www.gorillafund.org for more information about Dian Fossey and to find out how to help adopt a "gorilla in the mist." Let us be humble, and always in awe of those beings so perfect. Let us help protect all of "Mother Herth."

On this day in 2005, at age 66, Adriana Ilieseu became the oldest woman to give birth.

January 15th

2012-01-15T14:37:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1810, Abigail(Abby) Kelley Foster. An ultra-radical Abolitionist. She spent her life organizing, fund-raising and lecturing for the Anti-Slavery Movement and the Suffrage Movement. Born and raised in Massachusetts to a Quaker family, who believed in education for all ten of their children. In 1837, Kelley began her work as an abolitionist in Lynn, Mass. collecting signatures for a petition to end slavery in Washington DC. Soon Abby Kelley was lecturing calling for an end to slavery. She would share the graphic truth of what slavery truly meant to the human beings living the daily horror. Babies sold out of the arms of their mothers; male owners raping their the female slaves, husband and wives sold away from each other. Turning human beings into an objects to own. Kelley was the first woman to lecture in a "mixed" audience(meaning men and women) and with freed slaves and this is why some called her a "Jezebel". But, Kelley wasn't bothered with such non-sense. Kelley spoke to her audience until they understood exactly why the time had come to end the terror of slavery. Kelley also spoke for the Suffrage movement, ten years before Seneca Falls Convention in 1849. Kelley was a strong influence for Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Lucy Stone. Though, when the 15th Amendment was voted into law without "gender" in the wording; there was a falling out. Kelley continued to fund raise and lecture for women's rights. Even when her health was at risk, Abigail Kelley Foster could not rest until all were free. We should remember Ms.Kelley Foster for bravely stating the Truth.

Born this day in 1862, Loie Fuller, a pioneer in modern dance and theatrical lighting design. Creating her own dance costumes made of silk and then designing a light show that illuminated her talents for her thrilled audience. (youtube has great videos of Fuller) Please, look she was/is amazing!!

January 14th

2012-01-14T10:09:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1912, Tillie Lerner Olsen. Olsen is credited with being among the first generation of feminist writers. In her youth, Olsen dropped out of high school and held many working class jobs: waitress, domestic worker and meat trimmer. She was once jailed for trying to unionize the packing house workers and charged with "making a loud and unusual noise." She began to write at nineteen, capturing the harsh realities of her life. The first chapter of her first novel was published in The Partisan Review in 1934 and, from this, Olsen received a contract with Random House. She was unable to complete the novel because she needed to care for her family. In 1961, she was finally published. The volume included four short stories about working class women: "I Stand Here Ironing","O, Yes", and "Hey Sailor, What Ship?" and the fourth, also the title of the book, was "Tell Me A Riddle." She was awarded the O. Henry Award that year for "best short story." In 1974 the novel she began in 1934 was completed and published under the title, "Yonnondio: From the Thirties."
Olsen wrote a non-fiction volume, "Silences--a study of the silent times in a writer's life" (be it writer's block, the struggle of the working-class writer (especially women) or simply finding the time to fulfill themselves artistically.) Olsen points out that all of the females that had been successful up to this time were either single or they had a nanny to care for their children. But, in those times of silence, the study of daily reality forms in an artist's heart and mind, filling each page, shattering the silence.

To read the full text of "I Stand Here Ironing," click this link: http://members.multimania.co.uk/shortstories/olsenironing.html

On this day in 1697, in Massachusetts, the Colony officially regretted the Salem Witch Hunt, and made an offering by fasting for the day.

Also on this day in 1976, "The Bionic Woman" portrayed by Lindsay Wagner, premiered on ABC television station. And yeah, she kicked ass!

January 13th

2012-01-13T13:56:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1810--Ernestine Rose, an atheist-feminist, individual-feminist and abolitionist. Each label listed is a choice Ernestine made in living a life of freedom as a woman. After seeking legal redress to get out of an arranged marriage, Rose eventually chose a husband on her own. The couple immigrated to America and settled in New York City in 1836. In the same year the "married woman's act" was introduced to seek civil and property rights for married women in the State of New York. Rose wrote a petition and collected signatures in support of the new legislation. Alas, with only five signatures, the first petition did not help the doomed bill when it was voted on in the state legislatures of New York in 1838. [This was the first petition ever submitted in favor of women's rights.] Rose continued collecting signatures and submitting petitions for the next ten years and in 1849 these rights became law!
Ernestine Rose is a member of the "pantheon of great American women" which included Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott, Susan B. Anthony and Sojourner Truth. Though lesser known than some of her contemporaries, Ernestine Rose believed in truth, justice and liberty for all.

On this day in 1972, Bernice Gera won her suit against The National Association Baseball League. In 1967, Gera entered a six week course at Florida Baseball School training for umpires. She excelled in training, but when she applied to work as an umpire Gera was rejected. It was stated that she did not meet the physical requirements of the job.
On June 24th, 1972, Gera umpired her first professional game. A double hitter. She resigned between games. No one would cooperate with her on the field.

On this day in 1559, Elizabeth Tudor, was crowned Queen of England. Her mother (Anne Boleyn) was the first wife that Elizabeth's father King Henry VIII had beheaded on trumped up charges of adultery (although her real crime was in not providing the king with a male heir.)

January 12th

2012-01-12T20:47:00.000-08:00

On this day in 1912,the Lowell Mills textile workers of Lawrence, Massachusetts began to strike. The "Bread and Roses Strike". The Polish women realized their wages were cut. They stopped the looms and walked out shouting,"Short wage, short wage!". The mill owners had cut all the women and children's wages to reflect the work week (by state law)was cut by 2 hours -56 to 54 work hours. No clean water,poor diets and bad living conditions, and then the Mills held their own dangers besides the long working hours. The average lifespan of a mill worker was age 22. The owners of these mills felt the women and their children did not have the ability to hold out for a successful strike. And the cruel measures the mill owners and police used to shut the strike down worked against them. Instead, there was an outcry of support from the rest of the country and the government. On March 12th the mill owners agreed to the mill workers demands. "Bread! and Roses, too"
Meaning RESPECT.

On this day in 1874, Susan B. Anthony petitioned United States Congress for Suffrage proposal. And on this day in 1915 the Congress rejected the Suffrage proposal.

January 11th

2012-01-11T15:14:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1885, Alice Paul. She was one of the driving forces for American women to gain the right to vote. Ms. Paul was a true suffragette: (a woman who actively campaigns for women to have the right to vote; especially one who takes part in militant protests)
Not many Americans know the full story of women gaining the right to vote in the USA.
We assume Susan B. Anthony and the women of National American Woman Suffrage Association gave many speeches and it just magically happened. The history books are very fuzzy and on exactly what did happened...
Alice Paul and Lucy Burn is what happened. These young women pushed the envelope. Braking with National American Woman Suffrage Association.(this is not belittle the tireless work of NAWSA)
They founded the National Women's Party See, Ms. Paul felt that politely writing letters and attending endless meeting was not fully helping the cause of suffrage for women and she was right!
Parades, lobbying Congress, and then staging protests in front of the White house; the NWP truly raised awareness.
Whenever there is change, there is fear and anger. And President Wilson growing weary of the protests in front of the Whitehouse that had been going on for about 8 months. It was decided that the protesters would be arrested for obstructing traffic in front of the Whitehouse. Fining "The Ladies" they would "nickle and dime" out of this idea of protesting. But, they refused to pay. Not what the Whitehouse expected and the judge had them jailed. IN prison women were striped of their clothing, beaten, denied their rights to a lawyer...the list goes on.
It took time for the public to find out what was happening to these mothers, school teachers, sisters, daughters and wives.
When the story finally got out- there was an out cry. Alice Paul went on a hunger strike.
These are some examples of the actions that lead to the passing of the 19th amendment in 1921.
I encourage everyone to read more about Alice Paul. One of America's great women. There are only two films that protray Women's Suffrage: "Mary Poppins" 1964 and "Iron Jawwed Angels" HBO 2003! The first is a comedic song. And the second follows the life of Alice Paul. Great film, I had the honor of appearing in this film.

January 10th

2012-01-10T16:08:00.001-08:00

Today in her-story, Robert Browning began writing to Elizabeth Barrett in 1845; which started one of the literary world's most famous love stories. Elizabeth and Robert fought hard for their relationship. Barrett's father stood in their way,cruelly controlling his daughter, believing her to be mentally and physically weak. Ah, but true love prevailed.
In the end they did married, and so this piece of poetry was written.
"How do I love thee, Let me count the ways.
On this day in 1994, Lorena Bobbitt's trial began for cutting off her husband's penis.
Yes, after suffering another sexual attack, Lorena went to the kitchen for a glass of water...seeing the paring knife something flipped in her mind and she went into the bedroom and cut off half his penis. Fleeing the apartment, she drove away with it in her hand. Realizing this she threw it into a field. Flipping back into reality she called 911 and helped the police locate the missing part which was iced down and successfully re-attached to John Bobbitt. Lorena was found not guilty. They divorced in 1997. Today she is a hair stylist in Virgina

January 9th

2012-01-09T13:49:00.001-08:00

Born this day in 1941, Joan Baez. A woman who became the voice of the folk coffee house peace movement of the 1960's and 1970's. If you have not heard any of Baez's music go to youtube and listen. Powerful. Two of my favorites, "Diamonds and Rust" and "Blowing In The Wind". Happy Birthday, Joan Baez and thank you.

Born this day in 1859, one of the great American Suffragist, Carrie Chapman Catt.
Susan B. Anthony selected Catt to succeed her as President of National American Women's Association. (NAWSA) Catt served two terms as president. During her presidency in 1920 the Nineteenth Amendment passed into law. Catt was also the founder of "The League of Women Voters" and "The International Alliance of Women"
Catt spent most of her life traveling throughout the United States, leading campaigns,giving countless speeches and educating women about their rights; Catt lived to see the dream that Anthony and her colleagues only hoped would be the future of Amercian women and all women. The Right to Vote and a voice in this world.

January 8th

2012-01-08T10:03:00.001-08:00

On this day in 1925, Governor Pat Neff of Texas, appointed three women to the US c. They were appointed to hear the appeal case involving, The Woodmen of the World, "WOW"- a fraternal association whose membership included all the male lawyers and judges of Texas. This all female Supreme Court adjourned after they reached their decision in May of 1925. After this event in Texas- they elected their the first woman to the House of Representatives!

Born this day in 1867, Emily Greene Balch. An academic, writer and pacifist. Balch received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946, for her work with "Women's International League for Peace and Freedom."

January 7th

2012-01-07T19:11:00.001-08:00

Published on this day in 1896, "The Fanny Farmer Cook Book", except the original title was, "The Boston Cooking-School Book." Fanny Farmer was the author's name. Farmer's cook book was important to the history of cookery for the fact it standardized measurements of cups and spoons. It also emphasised the science of cooking both in the chemistry and in the dietary science. The importance of cooking healthy meals for the family. Fanny Famer Cookbook is still in print today.

Born this day in 1957,Katie Couric, American journalist. "Good Morning America", "ABC World News", "Nightline", "20/20", "60 Minutes",and her last seat was anchore for the "CBS Evening News"and in the Fall of 2012 she will host a new daytime talk show. Happy Birthday Katie!

January 6th

2012-01-06T11:32:00.000-08:00

Born this day in 1794, Rebecca Lukens. Lukens inherited her family's business, Brandywine Iron Mills and turned this business into one of the most successful steel works in US history.
Making boilerplates and track for the nation's growing railways.
Rebecca Lukens is believed to the first woman to head a industrial company in the United States. Lukens was inducted into the Fortune 500 magazine's National Industrial Business List Hall of Fame,in 1982. Coming in at #395. And yes, Ms. Lukens was married (her husband was a physician) and they had a family. Oh, her husband supported Lukens great head for business.

Being Woman

2011-12-07T13:03:00.001-08:00

So, I have been blogging Beingwoman since June 2006, not everyday or even once a month, but December 6th 2010, I did blog ALmost every day. I must state, this blog changed my life.
How? By learning the answer to the question, "What did women do in the olden days and how come we don't know about it?" The answer has been astounding, amazing and the history of humans makes more sense to me. Woman is the Universe, she creates, gives birth, understands, communicates, and holds the center of being safe within herself. This sentence is abstract, but those words are images in mind.
I have shared my research on this blog, in conversations and any time and any where I can share these bits of herstory. I will continue to add to this blog. At this point I have 374 entries. And there are more to come, because as much as I would have loved to have been able to have hammered out a daily blog- life stepped in.
Again, there is more to come but I wanted to share the thoughts at this point in time. Thank you for reading and there is more to come because beingwoman is being human and she is alive. Peace.

Nov 6th

2011-11-06T17:45:00.000-08:00

Born this day in 1946, Sally Field, actor,advocate for women's rights. Sally Field was a teen star on television in the early 1960's, first as "Gidget" fun loving teen who loved the beach and boys! Ms. Field's next role was the lead as Sister Bertrille in "The Flying Nun" and she was this young flying nun who wanted to help all the helpless, but somehow there was always somehow got into trouble, but with grace found her way out. Other like-minded roles were being offered, but... Ms. Field was in an actor's worse nightmare (after conquering unemployment) typecasting. And so she did something about it. "Sybil", a young woman afflicted with Dissociative Identity Disorder; the performance was amazing and very real. Ms. Field won the Emmy for best female actor in a lead. And she deserved it. From this point Sally Field had broken out of the loopy girl next door role and was able to go for the serious roles and part with "tooth". "Norma Rae", "Places In the Heart" won the Oscar, "Steel Magnolia's", "Murphy's Romance","Forrest Gump", to name a few, and now is she filming Spielberg's "Lincoln" as Mary Todd inwhich I have no doubt will be an amazing performance. My personal favorite Sally Field film is a hoot and amazing, "Soapdish". Very funny. She and Whoopie Goldburg are magical together.
Besides Ms. Field's film, she is also an activist for women's rights. She serves on the Board of Directors of Vital Voices Global Partnership, an international women's NGO, and has co-hosted the Global Leadership Awards six times.
Sally Field is a woman who does great work in her field but, she also stands up for women's rights which do need all the support they can get-

Nov 5th

2011-11-05T23:40:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1834,Anna Leonwens. Author of "Anna and the King of Siam" based on her life in Thailand. A British travel writer, educator, and social activist. But, it was Anna's travels to Mongkut, where she taught the wives and children of King of Siam and this experience lead to her book. And the book lead to three films -most memorable Rodgers and Hammerstein's 1951 musical comedy, "The King and I". Ms. Leonwens also co-founded the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design.

Born this day in 1850, Ella Wheeler Wilscox, an American poet. Known as a popular poet, "Laugh and the world world laughs with you; weep and you weep alone". She wrote for the Hearst Newspapers and was syndicated throughout the country.

Nov 4th

2011-11-04T11:26:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1965, Dickey Chapelle died in the battlefields of Vietnam. An American photojournalist, and war correspondent during WWII and the Vietnam War. Dickey Chapelle was a petite woman and her signature uniform: army fatigues, Australian bush hat, harlequin glasses and pearl earrings. Chapelle's calling was in her own words, "eyeballing history." or in the action. Chapelle was outspoken eccentric, with a voice like a ``marine drill sergeant.'' She would go beyond the call of duty; following the troops into the war zones to get the real story. But she had to fight her way into the war zone. Ms. Chapelle's first opportunity to go into battle was during World War II, following the Marines into the Battles of Iwo Jima and then Okinawa. Chapelle learned to jump with the paratroopers- she usually traveled with the troops. This tiny lady received many awards and the respect of the military and the journalism community.
While following a platoon on patrol on the front line, a land mine was set off by the soldier in front of her- Dickey Chapelle became the first woman to be killed in action and the first photo-journalist to be killed in the Vietnam War. Dickey Chapelle's courage gave courage.

Nov 3rd

2011-11-03T20:57:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1793, Olympe de Gouges was guillotined. An advocate for Human Rights,
Ms. de Gouges led a progressive life style for her time. She married once and that was enough. A playwright by trade, she used her sharp writing skills to give focus to the plight of women and blacks. Ms. de Gouges wrote a letter in 1791 to Marie-Antoinette declaring "Rights for Women". This is the first document written to support women's rights. Based on the manifesto, "Rights for Men". She was also quoted as saying, "A woman has the right to mount the scaffold(executed) she must possess equally the right to mount the speaker's platform." Through her writing and in her death she achieved both.
(http://studymore.org.uk/xoly.htm) This is the best translation I found and if you know a better one, please share.

Also on this day in 1970, Bella Savitsky Abzug was elected to Congress. A leader in Women's Movement. Known as 'Battling Bella", "Mother Courage" and 'Hurricane Bella"
Ms. Abzug was quoted, "This woman's place is in the House- the House of Representatives!"

Oct 31st

2011-10-30T22:24:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1874, Ms. Rose was a pioneer in nutrition. With a Ph D from Yale in physiological chemistry. Ms. Rose established a department of nutrition and developed nutrition education programs for public schools and all this while teaching at Teachers College, Columbia from 1909-40. Many publications include but are not limited to: "The Standard Foundations of Nutrition" 1927; "How to Plan Meals in Wartime" 1917; "Some Food Facts to Help the Housewife in Feeding the Family" 1918;
and my favorite title: "Economical Diet and Cookery in Time of Emergency" Thank you Mary. And Happy Halloween! Candy is good for you, right? Irony. Can't make this stuff up.

Oct 27th

2011-10-27T16:34:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1940, Maxine Hong Kingston, author and is currently Professor Emeritus
at University of California. A Chinese American writer, awarded the National Book Critics
Award for Nonfiction in 1976 for "The Woman Warrior". Arrested in 2003, for crossing a police line while protesting the Iraq War in Washington,D.C. Her latest book, "The Fifth Book of Peace". I recommend reading and watching Bill Moyer's 2007 PBS interview with Ms. Kingston. For the past 15 years Kingston has been working with veterans of WW II, Vietnam and Iraq wars to help them overcome the horrors of war. http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/05252007/profile.html
I must add another book to Ms. Kingston's credit, Maxine Hong Kingston's Broken Book of Life: An Intertextual Study of the Woman Warrior and China Men (Hardcover)released Nov. 3rd, 2011.

Born this day in 1872, Emily Post, known for her writings on social manners. Ms. Post's first book published in 1922 ""Etiquette, in Society, in Business in Politics, and at Home."
It was a best seller in 1922 and continues to be as popular today as it was in 1922. In 1931, Ms. Post aired her opinions on her own radio show. Also 1931, Ms. Post began her newspaper column. In 1946, Ms. Post created "The Emily Post Institute." The current spokes woman is Ms. Peggy Post, Emily Post's great-grand-daughter-in-law.

Oct 25th

2011-10-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1782, Robert Shurtleff was
honorably discharged from the Continental
Army when it was found that he was indeed
Ms.Deborah Samson. A tall, blonde, female-
school teacher who joined in Massachetts on
May 20th of the same year. Reason? A
love of adventure and very patriotic.

On this day in 1939, nylon stockings were
first sold in the United States.

Happy Birthday, Anne Tyler! A writer
whose art of storytelling reveals a
celebration of human nature in gently
heartbraking, and humourous way.
Awarded the Pulitzer Prize for her
novel, "Breathing Lessons" in 1989.
Other novels include: "The Accidental
Tourist", "The Patchwork Planet" and
her latest , "Digging to America".

This blog is my repeat from 2006, would not change a word.

Oct 24th

2011-10-24T13:30:00.001-07:00

On this day and the 23rd in 1850, the First National Women's Rights Convention,took place in Worcester, Massachusetts. This convention was the follow up to the Secca Falls Convention 1848. In May of 1850, after a Anti-Slavery meeting in Boston, Mass. an announcement asked any who were interested in help planning the Women's Rights's Convention stay behind and meet. Two men and nine women stayed behind. They decided to gather signatures and if they had enough they would hold the convention in October. The her-story of the National Women's Rights's Conventions were held every year in October in several northern states until the Civil War. After the Civil War, the National Women's Rights Convention gathered in back in New York.
And as Elizabeth Cady Staton put it:

"If serfdom, peasantry, and slavery have shattered kingdoms, deluged continents with blood, scattered republics like dust before the wind, and rent our own Union asunder, what kind of a government, think you, American statesmen, you can build, with the mothers of the race crouching at your feet...?

On this day in 1901: Anna Edson Taylor,"... went over Niagara Falls in a barrel, the first person to survive such a stunt." And I say of course a woman survived!

Oct 22nd

2011-10-22T16:55:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1845, Sarah Bernhardt, the greatest actress ever! Or so it seemed in Bernhardt's lifetime. There are so many tales about Sarah Bernhardt's personal life and her wildly successful career maybe it is true. The photos above are an indication of her presence. She played Hamlet, she played Cleopatra; and even after her right leg was amputated she still filled the theatre houses around the world. The voice, Bernhardt's voice was magical. So happy birthday, Sarah.

Sept 25th

2011-09-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1981, Sandra Day O'Conner was sworn in as United States Supreme Court Justice,and yes, Justice O'Conner was the first woman to hold this office.

Today, the women of Saudi Arabia have won the Right to vote!

On this day in 1926, the International Slavery Convention signed by 20 states creating a foundation to end slavery. By 1956 most countries signed. They are leading the fight against Slavery. Even today there people mostly "girl-child" and women are robbed of their rights. Most disturbing and must be stopped. And other rights quietly stolen in plain view as women struggle to control their own future and claim their freedom from violence, sexual abuse, and control of their bodies. Education, suffrage and own their place in the world without any family member controlling their future.
Look for ways to support all women, young and old.

My other work has pulled away from my favorite place, women's history and so my blog suffered. Sorry readers and please keep checking in. Means allot. Thank you.

Sept 9th

2011-09-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1914, Marjorie Lee Brown, pioneer African American mathematician. Graduate cum laude from Howard University in 1935. M.S. in mathematics from University of Michigan in 1939. Teaching at Wiley College in Marshall, Texas. At this time, Dr. Brown began work on her doctorate in Michigan during the summer and in 1947 she became a teaching fellow at the University of Michigan And in 1949, Brown earned her doctorate in mathematics. Dr. Brown then joined the faculty of North Carolina Central University and in 1951, Brown was made chair of the Mathematics department. Resigning the chair in 1970, but continued teaching until 1979. Dr. Brown's area of expert was combinatorial topology. In 1952-52 Dr. Browne won a Ford Foundation fellowship to study at Cambridge University and she traveled throughout Western Europe. Dr. Browne was the National Science Foundation Faculty Fellow studying computing and numerical analysis at the University of California.
In 1965-66, she won another fellowship studying differential topology at Columbia University. In 1975, Dr. Browne was the first recipient of the W.W. Rankin Memorial Award for Excellence in Mathematics Education North Carolina Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Dr. Browne used her talents to secure grants and fellowships for the faculty and students. Also, Dr. Browne helped students find their way with their studies, preparing them for college. Sadly, Dr. Browne died suddenly,at the age of 65 from a heart attack.

Sept 7th

2011-09-08T19:50:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1860: Anna Robertson Moses or better known as Grandma Moses, folk artist. Moses lived, worked and then painted farm life. Her father's farm and then in marriage, farming. Moses gave birth to ten children, but only five survived infancy. Moses' first painting was due to need. Running out of wallpaper, she painted a scene, "Fireboard", it hangs today in the Bennington Museum in Bennington, Vermont. But, her true calling happened much later; after retiring and living with her daughter and son in law, Grandma Moses had to give up embroidering because of her arthritis and turned to painting. She was in her 70's. Then in 1938, art collector and engineer, Louis Caldor saw Grandma Mose's painting for sale in the drugstore window, and he bought all of them and then went to Moses' home to buy whatever else she had for sale. Then in 1939, her work was included in, "Contemporary Unknown Painters" show at New York's Museum of Modern Art. And as they say," the rest was history!" Grandma Moses met with immediate success; the following year her first one woman show in New York City.
Grandma Moses painted from memory, the memory of the many aspects of life on the farm. Moses had never trained as a painter- but that did not stop her from finding her extraordinary talent that is still as popular as ever. Scenes of snowy days, summer days, children playing, turkey hunts, Christmas on the farm. These slices of life spoke to many. Grandma Moses paintings are filled with joy and peace and love of home and family. It could be said these paintings are safe haven from the storms of life and isn't that wondrous.
Grandma Moses was so popular her work could be found a sorts of products from curtains to cigarette packs. The National Press Club called her of the most noteworthy women of 1950, National Ass. of House Dress Manufactures named her Woman of the Year in 1951. When Grandma Moses was 88, Mademosiselle magazine named her "Young Woman of the Year" When Philadelphia's Moore College of Art awarded her its first honorary doctorate degree, Moses had a cold and so she received the degree via the telephone.
Grandma Moses painted well over a 1,000 paintings, the seasons, the holidays, the community and love of it all so present in her work. her paintings have sold for over million dollars. Art Star!
Grandma Moses was the sweetheart of the folk art world. She lived the age of 101. On her 100th birthday, in 1960 Governor Rockfeller proclaimed it "Grandma Moses Day" for the state of New York her home state. Honored by a stamp in 1969. What a magical life. Moses inspired the world to rethink about age and what,who,when we are "old".

Sept 6th

2011-09-06T20:08:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1824, Maria Zakrzewska, pioneering physician. Zakrzewska was born in Berlin, Germany. Her grandmother was a veterinary surgeon, and her mother worked as a midwife. After her education in Germany and teaching for a year at the college; in 1853 Zakrzewska left for the United States. The first year, she worked in as a contract worker as a knitter in a home and then Zakrzewska met Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell. It is Blackwell that helped Zakrzewska attend Cleveland Medical College.
Dr. Blackwell's sister Dr.Emily Blackwell and Dr.Zakrzewska began their planning and fund raising to open a hospital for women and children and medical school for women. And in 1857, the New York Infirmary for Women and Children (now Beth Israel Medical Center).
In 1859, Dr. Zakrzewska moved to Boston to teach in the New England Female Medical College, which was a school of midwifery. Dissatisfied with the college, Zakrzewska convinced the Board of Lady Managers to open a new teaching hospital. The New England Hospital for Women and Children, opened in 1862. A ten bed hospital, became another building very quickly. An all female staff. Dr. Caroline Still, was invited to do her internship there. 1872 the hospital opened the first professional nursing school in the country. Their goal was to have a better hospital school than all males schools and by 1881 the school so well respected; the need to limit enrollment medical students already with an MD. Dr. Zak did have a private practice and in 1902 she died. But, Doctor Maria Zakrzewska changed the face of the education of medical field in the United States for the better.

Sept 5th

2011-09-05T20:24:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1867, Amy Cheney Beach, child prodigy pianist and composer. Beach was playing the piano at age three, her formal training began at age six with her mother. Beach made her debut at age seven. In 1875 Beach's family moved to Boston and it is in Boston that Beach goes into serious training in piano, harmony, counterpoint, an composition. In 1885 Beach has her piano debut with the Boston Symphony. Marriage brought a hiatus to Beach's career and so at home, she composed.
Over 150 works during the Romantic period. After the death of her husband, Beach went on a world tour, making up for lost time. The premiere of the "Gaelic Symphony" on October 30th 1896 preformed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The first woman composer. Beach wrote the opera Cabildo in 1932. Retiring in 1940 with heart disease and Christmas 1944 Beach died.

Sept 4th

2011-09-05T19:33:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1824, Phoebe Cary, poet. Phoebe and her sister Alice wrote poetry on their family farm in Ohio. At the time, her sister Alice was more prolific, though Phoebe wrote less, her work today is viewed as more refine. The sisters both were published in their teens. Edgar Allen Poe and John Greenleaf Whittier recognized their work that the sisters published, "Poems of Alice and Phoebe Cary" in 1850. With positive reviews, the sisters moved to New York City. The Cary sisters held salons on Sunday evenings that began famous- they were famous. Phoebe was assistant editor for Susan B. Anthony's newspaper,"The Revolution". Both were published in regularly in national newspapers and magazines. Sadly, Alice (4 years older than Phoebe)suffering from exhaustion, died at the age of 51. Phoebe,heart broken died five months later, age 47.

On this day in 1992, Oprah Winfry hosted the 1st non news program seen on three networks simultaneously (CBS, NBC and PBS). "Scared Silent", a program addressing child abuse.

2011-09-03T16:36:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1910, Dorothy Maynor, internationally known soprano and founder of The Harlem School of Arts. "She had a soaring, bell-like soprano capable of exquisite musical effects, supported by a sincere and ardent temperament," wrote Nicolas Slonimsky. Manyor's career was at its height in the 1930's and 40's Depuis Le jour, from Charpentier's Louise was signature song and their was always a standing ovation. Maynor was African American was banned from singing in opera houses. She was one of the most sought after artists and one of the highest paid. The radio, and her public, Manyor's career was internationally acclaimed. Her recordings were best sellers and always heard on the radio.
In 1963 Maynor opened the Harlem School of the Arts a church annex with 12 students who she taught pinao lessons. And the rest is history or her-story. By 1979 the School was a 37,000 square foot facility with over 1,000 students in college preparatory programs in the performing arts and visual arts. A legacy that given a future to the Arts in the United States. Maynor also retired in 1979 to a quiet life with her husband in Pennsylvania.
It must also be noted that in 1975, Maynor was the first African- American to serve as one of the Board of Directors for the New York Metropolitan Opera.

Born this day in 1961, Amy Sullivan,artist,scenic artist. Sullivan's is best known for her portrait of children and her theatrical scenic work. Her scenic work is always on view at Universal Studios "King Kong" in Florida. She worked with Disney's On Ice Shows, "The Little Mermaid" "Aladdin" and many others. She was also the scenic painter for the Washington DC's Opera and the Washington Ballet. Sullivan was head scenic artist for Theatre IV's National Children's Touring shows and the Barksdale's theatre productions. Sullivan's love of children is truly expressed in her portrait painting, capturing them in intimate moments that give her subjects an endearing liveliness. Sullivan is still active in her scenic and portrait painting.

Sept 2nd

2011-09-02T19:02:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1838, Lydia Kamakaeha Liliuokalani, last reining queen of Hawaii, 1891 - 1893The United States felt "uncomfortable" about the changes Queen Liliuokalani wanted to make help the protect her people and country. So, the businessmen shared their concerns and the United States sent American troops to Hawaii. Overreacting, yes. To avoid any blood shed Queen Liiuokalani bowed to the troops. Later that year, 1893, President Cleveland viewed the take over of Hawaii unwarranted. But, in the end, somehow Hawaii became a territory of the United States in 1898. Queen Liliuokalani ruled the hearts of her people. The Queen died in Honolulu on Nov. 11, 1917. The beloved Queen Liluokalani was given a State funeral.

Born this day in 1948, Christa Corrigan McAuliffe, middle and high school teacher. And the first "Teacher In Space Project". McAuliffe was selected out of 11,000 applicants. The idea of a classroom in space was meant to reach out to children and engage them in journey of discovering outer space. McAuliffe had two 15 minute space classes. One, "The Ultimate Field Trip" would be an exploration of the space craft. And the second class, "Where We've Been, Where We're Going", which would discuss the reasons and benefits of space travel. This class room would be broadcast into millions of students. With one year to prepare for the trip, McAuliffe was not a full fledged astronaut, but the first civilian to fly into outer space.

On January 28th, 1986, along with the six crew members, McAliffe boarded Space Shuttle Challenger....73 seconds into the flight the Challenger broke apart...all aboard were lost.
Because McAliffe was on board there were many children present at NASA launching pad in Florida and all the students who were ready to follow McAliffe's journey into space via the television. Somehow, this space accident was truly heart braking to the United States. And it must be because Ms. McAliffe's complete joy as she set forth on her journey and then moments later, the Sorrow. McAliffe's joy of the journey of learning will never be forgotten many scholarships, schools, science centers bear her name. And on July 23rd 2004, McAliffe and all those whose lives were scarified in space travel given with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor by President George W. Bush.

On this day in 1867, the first "Girl School" was opened in Haarlem, Netherlands.

Sept. 1st

2011-09-01T09:42:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1730 Miss Deborah Read and her husband Benjamin Franklin's marriage became a "common law" marriage. YES! Miss Deborah's mother did not approve of Franklin because he was traveling to England! So,in 1723 Deborah was married off to her mother's choice while Franklin was in England and this guy turned out to be the scoundrel. Disappeared with Deborah's dowry and never was heard of again. And who knew Franklin was the romantic and he stood by her, his true love. Read was unable to marry Franklin because of the marriage to the first guy. And so they agreed to a common law marriage. And they lived happily ever after. Electricity in a bottle!

Born this day in 1815, Emma Stebbins, American scupltor. Stebbins family was very supportive her artistic career. Studied under Henry Inman. In 1857 Stebbins made the move to Rome, Italy the mecca of the art of sculpture. It is here Stebbins met actress, Charlotte Cushman who became Stebbins life partner. Stebbins best known works are Angel of the Waters, 1862 which located in Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, New York. The Angel has appeared in books, plays, films and TV. Yes, she is the Angel in America. Stebbins other sculptures include: The monument of Christopher Columbus, located in Brooklyn Civic Center and Treaty of Henry Hudson with Indians. Stebbins and Cushman moved back to the United States in 1870. Stebbins was unable spent much in her studio because of the ill health of Cushman, who Stebbins lovingly cared for until her death in 1876. Stebbins died in 1882.

On this day in 1878, the first female telephone operator, Emma Nutt, began her job in Boston.

August 11th

2011-08-18T10:30:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1836, Sarah Bryan Piatt, poet. Sarah graduated from Henry Female College in 1855. Married fellow poet and who also worked for US civil services, John James Piatt in 1861. Family life was very full with seven children. Sarah was a published poet by 1854. Living in Washington DC and they were stationed in Ireland 1892-94. In Ireland, Sarah Piatt met Yeats. Many of the poets of her time she could call friend. Piatt's poetry was published in Atlantic Monthly, Harper's, Scribner's and many other publications of the time. Published 16 volumes of verse, seven children did not hinder Piatt's work.

The Witch in the Glass

By Sarah Morgan Bryan Piatt

“My mother says I must not pass
Too near that glass;
She is afraid that I will see
A little witch that looks like me,
With a red, red mouth to whisper low
The very thing I should not know!”

“Alack for all your mother’s care!
A bird of the air,
A wistful wind, or (I suppose
Sent by some hapless boy) a rose,
With breath too sweet, will whisper low
The very thing you should not know!”

Born this day in 1897, Louise Bogan, poet. Bogan's personal life was difficult, during her childhood, her mother suffered with mental illness. They were poor. Though Bogan did recived a scholarship from Radcliff, which she walked away from to marry Curt Alexander. It did not last. Alexander died shortly after their separation. Another marriage, ended in divorce. Bogan suffered from depression. A difficult life. Most of Bogan's poetry was written in the part of her life. In this respect, Bogan's poetry-life, she was very successful. She was also poetry editor of The New Yorker (1937-1969) Bogan was the fourth Poet Laureate to the Library of Congress in 1945. She was published in Atlantic Monthly,Poetry: A Magazine of Verse, The Nation,The New Republic, and Scribner's. Bogan died in 1970 of a heart attack.

Medusa
by Louise Bogan
I had come to the house, in a cave of trees,
Facing a sheer sky.
Everything moved, -- a bell hung ready to strike,
Sun and reflection wheeled by.

When the bare eyes were before me
And the hissing hair,
Held up at a window, seen through a door.
The stiff bald eyes, the serpents on the forehead
Formed in the air.

This is a dead scene forever now.
Nothing will ever stir.
The end will never brighten it more than this,
Nor the rain blur.

The water will always fall, and will not fall,
And the tipped bell make no sound.
The grass will always be growing for hay
Deep on the ground.

And I shall stand here like a shadow
Under the great balanced day,
My eyes on the yellow dust, that was lifting in the wind,
And does not drift away.

August 10th

2011-08-16T19:14:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1585,the English Queen Elizabeth I, signed the Treaty of Nonsuch which aided the Netherlands, providing them with 5,000 foot soldiers, 1,000 cavalry and annual subsidy of 600,000 florins a year. All to help with the Siege of Antwerp. And for this help the Dutch offered the Queen the title "Governor General of the Province"; Brill and Flushing to England. This provoked the objection of the people of these lands. Well, Queen Elizabeth declined ( a very wise woman in politics) But, the Heads of the English troops did accept!
OFF WITH THEIR HEADS! One did not go against Queen Elizabeth wishes.

August 9th

2011-08-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1757, Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton who was, "the wife of Alexander Hamilton: his defender and promoter of her husband's reputation."

On this day in 1956, the women in South Africa protested the "pass laws". These laws demanded that people over the age of 16 carry "passes" was a way to control the movement of people and keeping them out of restricted areas. This day women of all races took the streets in protest and to present a petition signed by over 200,000 to the Secretary.
During the March women sang the freedom song:
Wathint' abafazi, Strijdom!
wathint' abafazi,
wathint' imbokodo,
uza kufa!

[When] you strike the women,
you strike a rock,
you will be crushed [you will die]!

"abafazi, wathint' imbokodo" stands for Women's courage and strength in South Africa.

The 1950s saw passive resistance against Apartheid in South Africa. And the protests of both men and women continued which lead to the tragic Sharpeville Massacre.
Pass Laws were finally repealed in 1986.

August 8th

2011-08-11T21:14:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1948, Svetlana Savitskaya, was the second woman in space.

On this day in 1950, Florence Chadwick swam the English Channel from France to England in 13 hours, 20 minutes, breaking Gertrude Ederle's record. In 1951 Chadwick became the first woman to swim the Channel from England to France in 16 hours and 22 minutes.

On this day in 1890, the Daughters of American Revolution organize.

On this day in 1977 Maurine Stuart,or Mother Roshi ,was the first female Zen Master granted to teach in the United States. In 1979, was president and spiritual director of the Cambridge Buddhist Association. Mother Roshi died Feb. 26th, 1990.

August 7th

2011-08-09T18:08:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1947, Lydia Villa-Komaroff, Molecular Biologist. Villa-Komaroff is a leading educator,researcher and pioneer in the science of cloning. "The secret to success was in the genes." Villa-Komaroff did her graduate work at MIT under the Nobel Laureate David Baltimore. She has taught and conducted research at Harvard University Medical School, Northwestern University. "Discovering Women" a PBS documentary ran in 1995 as a six-part series on women in science. "DNA Detective", was the title of Villa-Komaroff's segment.
Yes, a pioneer in cloning; but also a woman reaching out to young women interested in the field of science. Villa-Komaroff is now Board Member and Chief Scientific Officer, Cytonome/ST, LLC.

On this day in 1963, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy was the first to give birth in the Whitehouse, since First Lady Cleveland. Patrick Bouvier Kennedy died August 9th, 1963, of
Hyaline Membrane Disease, today more commonly called Infant respiratory distress syndrome.

August 6th

2011-08-07T22:27:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1619, Barbara Strozzi,Baroque singer and composer. Strozzi was born in Venice, Italy into a creative and artistic family. A poet father, who adopted his housekeeper's daughter and claimed in his will as his natural daughter.
Stozzi was the most prolific composer of 17th century Italy. Strozzi began her music career, singing; her father arranged for his daughter to study with the talented composer Francesco Cavalli. Strozzi was unusual in the fact most of her work was secular vocal music, and only one volume of sacred songs. There is more interest in Strozzi's work as they discover and understand that women were and are capable of composing in this time period. Yeah the old- "women do not have brains for composing."

On this day in 1926, Gertrude Ederle of New York, became the first woman to swim the English Channel.

On this day in 1939, the "Dinah Shore Show" aired the first broadcast on NBC-radio.

On this day in 1948 Summer Olympics, Fanny Blankers-Koen of the Netherlands was the first woman to win four gold medals, the most decorated athlete of the Games. She was also known as the "Flying Housewife", because she did indeed have a family and household to take care of, while preparing for her Track and Field events.

August 5th

2011-08-06T11:11:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1924 Mr. Harold Gray's new comic strip, "Little Orphan Annie" made her newspaper debut in the New York Daily News. Unlike the popular musical, "Annie", everyone is familiar with today. The comic strip star was more of super hero-saving the world with her her friends, Daddy Warbucks and Sandy, her dog. Little Orphan Annie was "saving the day" on endless train of adventures. "Gee whiskers" and "Leapin' lizards!" Annie's favorite sayings. The creator, Mr. Gray, started Annie's character as a boy! But, one day he met a little girl on the streets, she looked like a "ragamuffin with bright red hair" and then he knew this was the inspiration for his new comic strip character- Annie. There were over forty male comic strip characters and only three female.
Annie was kind, helpful, plucky, generous,and optimistic. Ready to take any bully, be they a neighborhood gang or some evil doer trying to take over the world. Now the "bad guy" changed with Gray's politics, but Annie was there with her inner compass that had a strong sense of right and wrong.
Little Orphan Annie, had long run, out living her creator, Gray who died in 1968, the stripe went into re-run which last until June 13th, 2010 and by this date she was only carried in 20 newspapers. Annie was a great role model for girls and boys too. With her signature red curly hair, flame red dress and then those very unusual eyes "round white circles."

August 4th

2011-08-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1697, Susanna Wright, poet. Born in England and her family Quakers, they immigrated to America in 1714, first settling in Pennsylvania and then by 1728 she and her family were settled in Wright's Ferry(known now as Columbia). Susanna never married and with the death of her mother in 1722, she was running her father's large household. We know about Susanna's life through surviving letters and her poetry.
Wright also raised prize winning silkworms and studied medicinal herbs- both very useful to a large household.
Wright home hosted many of the American leaders of her time: Benjamin Franklin,
Benjamin Rush, and historian Robert Proud. She drafted documents for her neighbors who were in need and unable to do so themselves. Wright also wrote on serious topics of the time. Most remembered,Franklin’s pamphlet denouncing the massacre of the Conestoga Indians, she a one of the writers.
Susanna wrote poetry. There was a group of Pennsylvania poets who exchanged poems: Hannah Griffitts,Deborah Logan, and Miclah Martha Moore. Over thirty poems have been found Wright's and most were located in "Moore's commonplace book."

Enlightenment! Wright wrote two poems that stand out, "To Eliza Norris at Farihill" and "Anna Boylens Letter to King Henry the 8th." Norris asked women to used Enlightenment revernce for reason to undermine the male prvilege protected by law:extant

But womankind call reason to their aid,
And question when or where that law
was made,
That law divine (a plausible pretence)
Oft urg’d with none, & oft with little
sense.

Susanna Wright was a well respected citizen of this New America and she was able make her voice known and was part of circle of women who made sure that their point of view of those times was heard. And all the while smiling with wit and feeding the family and running the very large household which also included her brother's too. To read Susann's Wright's poetry and the other poets of the book(they are all women): Milcah Martha Moore's book: a commonplace book from Revolutionary America

August 3rd

2011-08-03T16:55:00.001-07:00

"Although the world is full of suffering, it is
also full of the overcoming of it."
~Helen Keller

Born in Berlin, Germany in 1902, Regina
Jonas was the first female Rabbi. After
completing her studies- she wrote, "Can
a Woman be a Rabbi According to
Halachic Sources?" The answer was-yes.
Ordained in 1935. As the Nazi came to
power many rabbis emigrated- ironically
allowing Rabbi Jonas to preach in the
synagogues. She was arrested in 1942-
deported to "Theresienstadt" she worked
meeting the trains and giving hope and
courage to those entering the camps. She
wrote and preached 24 lectures. At age 42
Rabbi Jonas was murdered in Asuchwitz.

Born this day in 1905, founder of the "Gray
Panthers", Maggie Kuhn. Considered by
may to have started a contemporary culture
revolution- she redefined the meaning of age
and her battle cry,"young and old together."
Ms. Kuhn brought forward the social issues
of the elderly.

Born this day in 1923, Anne Klein, founder
of the label Anne Klein. She defined
the American women style of the 1960's
and though Anne Klein died suddenly in
1969 her company is still at the top of
fashion world today.

Martha Stewart was born this day in 1941.
Founder of Ominimedia, Ms. Stewart one
of the most well known business women
of our time. She has television, radio,
magazines, and books all in the service
of home and hospitality.

(Today's blog was first used in 2006, after reading it,
I felt it deserved repeating.)

August 2nd

2011-08-02T19:40:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1858, Dutch Queen Emma von Waldeck-Pyrmont, Queen/Regent of the Netherlands.

On this day in 1884, Dutch Queen Emma is appointed Queen Regent of the Netherlands.
Throughout her life the Queen had many titles:

Her Serene Highness Princess Emma of Waldeck and Pyrmont (1858–1879)[1]

Her Majesty Queen Emma of the Netherlands, Princess of Waldeck and Pyrmont (1879– 1890)
Her Majesty (Dowager) Queen Emma of the Netherlands, Queen Regent (1890–1898)
Her Majesty (Dowager) Queen Emma of the Netherlands, Queen Mother (1898–1934)

On this day in 1894, Dutch Queen Emma and the Dutch Society for Women Suffrage created a Royal Charter.

Born this day in 1858, Dutch composer, Cathrina van Rennes. Rennes wrote music mostly for childern.

August 1st

2011-08-01T17:02:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1785, Caroline Herschel, became the first woman to discover a comet.
(to learn more about Herschel go to Beingwoman's Aug 1 entry 2006.)

On this day in 1911, Harriet Quimby was the first woman in the United States and the second woman in the world to receive a pilot's license.

Born this day in 1818, Maria Mitchell, astronomer. In 1847, she was the first American person to discover and record a comet sighting.

On this day in 1919, Queen Wilhelmina opened the first Air Fair in Amsterdam.

Anna Ella Carroll Day on August 27

2011-07-31T11:08:00.000-07:00

Women's Mercury founders Bridget Gethins and Keri Wormald visited the founders of The Friends of Anna Ella Carroll on the Eastern Shore of Maryland this weekend. A reminder from the "Friends" that Anna Ella Carroll Recognition Day is on August 27, 2011 in beautiful Cambridge, MD. Visit their website at http://www.friendsofannaellacarroll.org to learn more. Look to the Women's Mercury http://www.womensmercury.com for more information on an upcoming project that will connect our Mission with those of the Friends of Anna Ella Carroll. Frank Bittner and Earl Brannock are living proof that not all feminists are women.

July 27th

2011-07-27T22:25:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1853,Lucy Maynard Salmon,historian and Department Head of History for Vassar College. Salmon's mother was the first principal of Fulton Female Seminary and her father a very successful businessman. She attended the University of Michigan in 1872. One year after they allowed women to attend.
After receiving her AB in history, Salmon taught in high schools in the mid-west. She went on to finish her master's thesis,"A History of the Appointing Power of the President. Vassar College hired Salmon in 1887 to create their history department as a Associate Professor of History and by the second year she was a Full Professor and Head of the Department of History.
Salmon did not believe in learning by rote- learn the names, dates, places, but to learn how to learn and to understand the subject- memorizing these dates and places was not the point..... "if a child is sent to school to learn he may never learn how to learn."
Salmon methods of research of history was to go beyond the Gods and their thrones, but look out one's backyard and research the history of everyday life. The laundry list was one of her more interesting projects- but by understanding daily life, gives a more honest real relationship with history and then when one does look to the ancients,,,well what was on their laundry list.
Salmon also founded the Vassar Alumnae Historical Association which created a treasury with the propose of purchasing books for the History Library that was in great need of their support.Vassar Alumnae Historical Ass continues their work today.
Salmon wrote many books and hundreds of essays about the many aspects of history one of her most well known is Domestic Service
Lucy Salmon changed history by changing the focus of the eye on a tree and another tree and another and then seeing the forest. Lucy died in Feb, 14, 1927.

July 25th

2011-07-26T07:17:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1920, Rosalind Elsie Franklin,leading scientist in the discovery of DNA. The race to fully understanding DNA was between Franklin's team and James Watson team of researchers.
Franklin is credited with much of the responsibility that lead to the understanding of the structure of deoxyribonucleic acid,DNA. Franklin was the first to photograph DNA. Her crystallographic portraits of DNA of which she said," the most beautiful X-ray photographs of any substance ever taken." Sadly, Franklin died of ovarian cancer at the age of 37.

July 24th

2011-07-24T19:16:00.001-07:00

On this day in 2010,rallies were held in Paris,FR. New York City, Ottawa and other major cities throughout the world-to demand the release of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani
She is an Iranian woman who is facing execution for adultery. Stoning women to death is barbaric and a horror and to think there are courts of law who think this is a form of justice is madness. Ashtiani's nephew is now being held in prison for demanding freedom for his aunt. And even IF Ashtiani had an affair, it is not a reason for death for man or woman. If you would like sign the petition and learn more about this story, www.freesakineh.org

On this day in 1990 Ms. Magazine was back on the newsstands after an 8 month hiatus.

July 23rd

2011-07-24T13:12:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1880, Emma Carr,chemist and 7th woman to receive a physical chemistry Ph.D. from the University of Chicago. As Head of Department of Mount Holyoke Carr created a research program studying ultraviolet spectra of hydrocarbons, and established a link between the frequenciabsorptions and the enthalpy change of combustion of the compounds.
Carr was also the Carr was the inaugural recipient in 1937 of the Francis P. Garvan Gold Medal of the American Chemical Society (ACS), established "to recognize distinguished service to chemistry by women chemists".
The chemistry building at Mount Holyoke College was dedicated in her honor in 1955.

Today is the Feast Day of Saint Bridget of Sweden.

July 22nd

2011-07-24T12:46:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1849 Emma Lazarus, poet. Lazarus is best known for her poem "The New Colossus", that is engraved at the foot of the Statue of Liberty.

Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore,
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!
-- Emma Lazarus, "The New Colossus"

These words echo the story of who is, America. May we never forget.

July 21st

2011-07-21T17:47:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1896, the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs formed, to read and learn more about this organization visit their website: www.nacwc.org

On this day in 1969 the National Women's Hall of Fame was dedicated in Seneca Falls,New York.
To visit the website: www.greatwomen.org

July 19th

2011-07-21T17:44:00.002-07:00

On this day in 1848, 300 women and men, gathered together for The Seneca Falls Convention. The topic, Women's Rights, the reason, to determine the path that would lead to women obtaining Women's Rights, and it did to include Suffrage. The convention leaders who organized the two day convention, Lucretia Mott, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. There were six sessions, with topics from the humorous to the serious role of women in society.
The women also prepared two documents; the Declaration of Sentiments and a list of resolutions to be debated and modified before being presented for signatures. This moment in her-story is seen as the moment that the Women's Movement in the United States began her long and ongoing journey to equality.

July 18th

2011-07-21T17:44:00.001-07:00

In 1817 Jane Austen died. But, the children she
left behind have given great comfort, joy and laughter.
"Pride and Prejudice", "Emma", "Persuasion"; to
name a few of the dears.
Thank you, Jane.

The unsinkable Molly Brown was born this day in
1867. The Titanic sank but, Molly did not.

July 12th

2011-07-20T12:29:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1859, William Goodale is credited with the invention of paper bag manufacturing machine-and he did have a patent, BUT, Margaret Knight invented the paper bag manufacturing machine which is still in use today. The reason for pointing this fact out, the paper bag many assume it is Goodale's when in fact it is Margaret Knight's invention.

On this day in 1984, Geraldine Ferraro became the first woman majority-party Vice Presidential candidate.

July 11th

2011-07-19T21:42:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1851, Millie-Christine McCoy, con-joined twins. The McCoy sisters referred to themselves as one, even though the connection was below the waist. Born into slavery in North Carolina,and like most who looked "different" in the 18th and 19th century, Millie-Christine spent their lives traveling throughout the United States and Europe on display for any who would pay. "The Two-Headed Nightingale" and "The Eighth Wonder of the World". Or the Two-headed Girl, was the title of their act. They met Queen Victoria, traveled with Barum in the 1860's. In their 30's they were able to control how often they worked and traveled. The Carolina sisters inherited the family farm in North Carolina, and it there, Millie and Christine spent the quiet time of their lives.

Blogger Down

2011-07-19T21:28:00.001-07:00

This blogger has been having great technical difficulty. Motherboard fried, new computer blues, and finally I am able to post. I should be caught up within the next few days. I have missed Her-story and I hope you all keep visiting. Thank you for all your support and sorry for the delays.
Peace,
Beingwoman.

July 10th

2011-07-16T19:45:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1942, Himmler ordered the sterilization of all Jewish women in Ravensbruck Camp.

On this day in 1553, Lady Jane Grey became Queen of England, but only for nine days! She is known as the "Nine Day Queen".

On this day in 1890, Wyoming became the 44th state of the United States, women had the right of vote.

On this day in 1985, Playboy published a full frontal nude photographs of Madonna.

July 9th

2011-07-15T12:32:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1926, Mathilde Krim, medical researcher, health educator of HIV/ AIDS. In 1981, as the first cases of HIV AIDS were reported, Krim was one of the first to understand the enormity and the impact of the AIDS virus could have on society. She changed her research work to researching and then the great need of education about AIDS. In April 1983, Krim founded the AIDS Medical Foundation (AMF), the first private organization concerned with fostering and supporting AIDS research. In 2000, Krim recieved the Presidential Medal of Freedom for all her work and continued work. To learn more about AIDS research and Krim's work, www.amfar.org

On this day in 1891, Irene Coit became the first woman admitted to Yale University.

On this day in 1982, Margaret Thatcher began her 2nd term as Britain's Prime Minister.

July 8th

2011-07-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1911, Nan Aspinwall became the first woman to complete a solo trip across country by horse. A cow-girl known as Two-Gun Nan, she and her horse Lady Ellen, rode out of San Franco, CA., alone, riding east, toward New York, 4496 miles away. It took 180 days, and Two-Gun Nan only had to use her gun twice, a run in with two inhospitable towns. She was 31 and it must be noted that Nan rode "astride" and wearing pants and or skirt pants- which illegal in part of the United States!

On this day in 1977, Sabra Starr finished the longest recorded belly dancing, 100 hours!

July 7th

2011-07-15T08:28:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1851, Lillien Jane Martin, educator and psychologist. Martin began her work life as a teacher with the thought of earning enough money to high for a college education which she did- And in the middle of this career Martin followed her passion to study psychology, becoming pioneer in psychology especially in her studies and research of active second career in gerontological psychology.

On this day in 1550, chocolate was introduced!

On this day in 1946, Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini was the first American to be canonized as a Saint.

On this day in 1948, six women reservist became the first women sworn into United States military.

On this day in 1981, Sandra Day O'Connor was nominated by President Reagan as Supreme Court Justice. Becoming the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

July 6th

2011-07-06T18:29:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1951, Althea Gibson won at Wimbledon, she was the first African American athlete to achieve this victory.

On this day in 2010, Linda Lingle, governor of Hawaii, vetoed a bill to allow same-sex civil unions.

July 5th

2011-07-06T09:01:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1922, women in Holland voted in the elections for the first time.

On this day in 1983, a woman who had been brain dead for 84 days gave birth to a healthy baby.

On this day in 1986, The Statue of Liberty reopened after being refurbished. First Lady Nancy Reagan was on hand to cut the ribbons of red, white and blue.

July 4th

2011-07-05T10:44:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1845,Edmonia Lewis, artist, sculptor. Lewis claimed she was raised in the wild by her mother's family who were was Ojibway (Chippewa) Indian. Little is known of her father who was a free black. And her parents died when Edmonia was a child. Lewis did have an older brother, Samuel who was twelve years older and struck it rich in the gold rush. He paid for his younger sister's education, including a college education. Edmonia attended Oberlin College which was the first college to admit women and African-Americans for which Lewis fell into both categories.
While attending Oberlin, she was accused of poisoning two fellow female students. And few days later, she was dragged into a field and beaten badly. What was strange was these two students were sick, but quickly recovered. And Lewis was arrested after the attack. Lewis was acquitted and her supporters carried her out of the court on their shoulders.
Lewis moved to Boston to study with master sculptor Edward A. Brackett. But, really she wanted a studio and to start her own work. Again with the help of her brother Lewis was able to open a studio and Samuel had a business sign made to hang outside her studio,which read, "Edmonia Lewis, Artist."
In Boston, she met many abolitionists who befriended Lewis. One of her first works was a medallion of abolitionist martyr, John Brown. It met with commercial success. She then sculpted a bust of Robert Gould Shaw, leader of the all black regiment who died in battle. It was in the "Soldiers Relief Fair Show", and Lewis was able to sell 100 plaster copies of this bust.
Lewis' dream was to study and work in Rome, Italy. And this dream became possible with the income of the bust and with the help of her brother, Samuel. But, before leaving, Lewis traveled to Richmond, VA, to help the freed slaves. The year was 1864.
Rome was home to several female artists, and as Henry James called this group, "that strange sisterhood" and who were they? Harriet Hosmer, Louisa Lander, Anne Whitney, Margaret Foley, Vinnie Ream and Emma Stebbins.
Rome became Lewis' home. The wealthy American tourists would visit her studio and commission work. It is also noted that Lewis did her own sculpting and did not use the Italian artisans.
By 1873, Lewis a world renown artist. Her works include, The Veiled Bride of Spring, busts of Pre. Grant, Phillis Wheatley, Bishop Foly, The Adoration of the Magi an alter piece that includes Asian, Caucasian, and African-American cherubs and statue of the Holy Virgin for a church in Baltimore.
Lewis' master work, and her most controversial work was the statue, The Death of Cleopatra. This massive statue disappeared! How? Why? But, it was found in a salvage yard by a fire inspector in 1988. In 1995, it was restored to its former glory and placed in the Smithsonian National Museum of American Art.
And like her Cleopatra, Lewis disappeared, no one knows where or when she died.

July 3rd

2011-07-05T09:29:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1796, Maria Martin, artist. Martin was the artist who collaborated with John James Audubon! Audubon painted the bird and Maria Martin painted everything else. For twenty years she finished Audubon's paintings. And the publishers simply left her name out! Writing her out of history.
Audubon traveled to Charleston, SC in 1831 and met Rev. John Bachman who was a scientist and his sister-in-law was Maria Martin. Martin was already painting images for Bachman and Audubon admired her work and asked Maria Martin to collaborate with his paintings.
It is hard to image these paintings as complete works of art without the surroundings of nature in the trees, insects,flowers, water and sky.

July 2nd

2011-07-05T08:25:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1979, Susan B. Anthony "dollar" was issued to honor woman! Previously to Anthony there was "Lady Liberty" who was depicted on the dime: the seated Liberty 1836-1891 and then Winged Liberty Cap 1916-1945. Martha Washington
was on the 1886 and 1891 Dollar Silver Certificates and in 1896 with her husband George Washington on the Dollar Silver Certificate.
And Susan B. Anthony was replaced with Sacajawea in 2000. Sigh.

July 1st

2011-07-03T15:28:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1972, Ms.Magazine began publication. But it was in December of 1971, that Ms. began as a "one-shot" sample insert in New York Magazine. Ms. recognizes this date as their beginning. Letty Cottin Pogrebin was the founding editor. And this editor stated,"Ms. authors translated a movement into a magazine."
Ms. Magazine is online www.msmagazine.com

On this day in 1971, the state of Washington became the first state to ban sex discrimination!

June 30th

2011-07-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1974, Alberta Williams King was shot dead by a man from Ohio, as she played The Lord's Prayer on the organ, during a Sunday Service at Ebeneser Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA. This fact is so little known, it is outrageous. The Mother of Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. a man who so bravely lead the Civil Rights Movement, the man who the United States honors with a special day, his mother suffered the same fate as her son. A life cut short by senseless violence.

When I began this blog in June of 2006, I would google today in history and then follow the leads. Mrs. King's lead simply stated, "Mrs. King shot." Not one word as to who was Mrs. King. And as I followed the leads and learned the truth, I was shocked! I still will ask people, if they know about the fate of Dr. King's Mother and sadly most people do not. This is a measure as to much women are written out of history!

On this day in 1936, Margaret Mitchell's novel "Gone With the Wind" was published.
-Another little connection, Mrs. King and Dr. King (as a child) performed at the premier of the film, "Gone With the Wind".

On this day in 1966,the National Organization for Women (NOW)was founded.

On this day in 1982, the Federal Equal Rights Amendment failed short by 3 states of ratification.

Section 1. Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.

Section 2. The Congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.

Section 3. This amendment shall take effect two years after the date of ratification

To read more go to www.equalrightsamedment.org On March 8th, 2011, this bill has been reintroduced to the Congress.

June 28th

2011-06-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1969, the Stonewall Riot took place in New York City. The Stonewall was a gay and lesbian bar which the police would raid whenever, what? the mood struck? No one would fight back and many were carted off to jail. June 28th, 1969 was the night the patrons of the Stonewall fought back which heralded in a new chapter in Gay and Lesbian Rights.

On this day in 1976, the first women one hundred and fifty seven of them began the United States Air Force Academy.

On this day in 1996, the South Carolina military School, The Citadel voted to admit women to keep their public funding.

June 27th

2011-06-27T18:46:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1848, Dorothea Dix presented her appeal to the Unisted States Congress for funding the "indigent insane". To read more about Dix go to Beingwoman April 4th, 2011.

June 26th

2011-06-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1996, the United States Supreme Court ruled that VMI Virginia Military Institute must admit women!

On this day in 1959, Queen Elizabeth and President Eisenhower opened the St. Lawrence Seaway.

June 25th

2011-06-27T17:13:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1947, the first edition of Anne Frank's diary was published under the title The Back of House. The title was later changed to Anne Frank The Diary of A Young Girl

On this day in 1972,Bernice Gera became the first female umpire in pro baseball.

On this day in 1863, Olympia Brown was ordained by the St. Lawrence Universalist Association, becoming one the first women ministers in the US ordained with full denominational authority. See, Beingwoman blog, Jan 5th, 2011 for more information about Brown.

June 24th

2011-06-27T16:14:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1982, the Equal Rights Amendment was defeated again. As of today, women are still not protected under the Constitution.

On this day in 1936, Mary McLeod Bethune was appointed director of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration, Bethune was the first African American woman to hold a major Federal appointment.

On this day in 1647, Margaret Brent, niece to Lord Baltimore was ejected from the Maryland Council for requesting the right to vote. To learn more go to Beingwoman blog entry June 24th, 2006.1128

June 23rd

2011-06-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1972, President Nixon signed Title IX into law. To read about Title IX visit www.dol.gov/oasam/regs/statutes/titleix.htm

On this day in 1936, Congress designated the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mother's Day, to honor the mothers who have lost a son or daughter in military service.

On this day in 1981, Amanda Maccaro became the first American to win the Russian Ballet Competition.

June 22nd

2011-06-22T22:09:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1812, Frances Flora Bond Palmer,her professional name was Fanny Palmer. Palmer was a professional artist who worked for the famous print makers Currier and Ives who created lithographs of American Life. Above are examples of Palmer's art work. She was creating these scenes out her imagination with some sketching done after riding out to Long Island. Palmer did not have a proper training in art but her talent was her own. Palmer became a working artist out of need to support her family. In 1851, she was hired by Nathaniel Currier. Fanny Palmer was the hardest working artist in 19th century America who never received the recognition she truly deserved. Palmer's artwork decorated the walls of millions of American homes and little did they know their lovely lithos were by a woman.

June 21st

2011-06-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1912, Mary McCarthy, author, critic. McCarthy wrote the novel, The Group published in 1963 and landed on the York Best Seller List the same year and remained there for two years. The Group follows the lives of eight girl friends after they graduate from Vassar College in 1933. McCarthy was also in a famous feud with playwright Lilian Hellman. During an interview on The Dick Cavett Show in 1979
McCarthy, "provoked Hellman when she famously said on The Dick Cavett Show: every word [Hellman] writes is a lie, including 'and' and 'the'."
Hellman sued, but the case was dropped when Hellman died in 1984. McCarthy was awarded the National Medal for Literature and the Edward MacDowell Medal. She was also a member of the National Institute of Arts and Letters.

On this day in 1913, Tiny Broadwick became the first woman to parachute from an airplane.

June 20th

2011-06-21T18:30:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1837, Queen Victoria ascended the British throne. And on this day England issued its first stamp, 1P Queen Victoria.

On this day in 1895, Caroline Willard Baldwin became the first woman to earn a PhD in Science.

On this day in 1966, Sheila Scott completes the first round the world flight by a woman.

On this day in 1793 Eli Whitney patented the cotton gin or was it Catherine Greene?

June 19th

2011-06-21T15:59:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1940, Shirley "Cha Cha" Muldowney, drag racer and the first woman to be a Top Fuel champ. Known as the First Lady of Drag Racing, Muldowney broken through the gender wall, of a all male sport. She is still racing today!

On this day in 1893, Lizzie Bordon was acquitted of murdering her parents with an ax.
But, the little children's rhythm:

"Lizzie Borden took an ax gave her mother 40 whacks, when she saw what she had done gave her father 41!"

Ahhh, but oral history condemns her forever.

On this day in 1963,Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman in space returns to Earth.

June 18th

2011-06-21T13:40:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1980, Mrs. Shakuntala Devi of India, mentally multiplied 2 13-digit numbers in 28 seconds. She is known as the "Human Computer". She holds the Guinness Book record. Today, she uses her amazing talents in the field of astrology. And often travels to share her amazing mathematical skills.

On this day in 1909,Nannie Helen Burroughs, founded The National Training School for Women in Washington DC. After Burroughs death the school was renamed in her honor, The Nannie Burroughs School.

On this day in 1873, Susan B. Anthony was fined 100 dollars for voting for the President. She never paid the fine.

On this day in 1981, Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart retired and was replaced by Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman seated on the Supreme Court.

June 17

2011-06-18T11:59:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1873, Susan B. Anthony was on trial for "illegally voting." Oh, yes.

On this day in 1928, Amelia Earhart began her record-breaking Trans-Atlantic flight.

On this day in 1971, Jeanne M. Holm, becomes the first brigadier general in the United States Air Force, and in 1973, she was promoted to major general.

June 16th

2011-06-16T16:05:00.000-07:00

On this day in 2011, a Ames, Iowa Girl Scout Troop, who called themselves the Flying Monkeys, are receiving their award at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in Alexandria, Va. They are the winners of inaugural FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL®) Global Innovation Award, presented by the X PRIZE Foundation. They were given a 20,000 dollar check to help with patent of this amazing invention.
Which they call BOB-I ," a prosthetic hand device that helps users with limb abnormalities hold, grip, stabilize or secure items" The first BOB-I was for a three year girl,Daniella of Georgia, who was born without fingers on her right hand.
The Flying Monkeys heard about Daniella and wanted to help her to hold and use a pencil. And the BOB-I works! There are many links on web to view the great success of their invention!

The Flying Monkeys are among over 200 Girl Scout robotics teams that have been formed around the country as part of Girl Scouts of the USA’s increasing focus on science, technology, engineering and math. “Girl Scouts are showing the world that girls are ready to take their place as scientific leaders,” says Kate Pickle, GSUSA’s National Program Manager, STEM.

June 15th

2011-06-15T20:01:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1887, Malvina Hoffman, American sculptor and author. Known for her life-size bronze sculptures of people. In 1930, Hoffman was commissioned by the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago to create sculptures representing a world view of human cultures for their permanent exhibition, titled "Hall of the Races of Mankind" Creating over 100 sculptures, later the these "world view of human kind" have been seen as dated and not true to the culture of modern times.
Hoffman created many busts of famous persons. Hoffman studied with Auguste Rodin.

On this day in 1876, Sara Spencer became the first woman to address the United States presidential convention.

On this day in 1908, World Congress for Woman's Rights opened in Amsterdam.

On this day in 1921, Bessie Coleman reached France as the United States first black pilot.

June 14th

2011-06-15T18:21:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1938, Dorothy Lathrop was awarded the very first Caldecott Medal, for her illustrations and art in the book Animals of the Bible, A Picture Book, written by Helen Dean Fish. In 1931, Lathrop received a Newberry Medal Honor for her book The Fairy Circus.
Lathrop loved of creating images of beauty and animals for children's books, but she also created amazing fantasy and fairy tales illustrations. Lathrop images of fairies are so captivating and one feels this artist met in a secret glenn where her fairies modeled for her artwork! Very little is known about Dorothy Lathrop. She died in 1980. I have included several images of her work because it is truly magical and some how her work is over looked.

On this day in 1984, the Southern Baptist convention decided, NO women clergy members.

On this day in 1989, Zsa Zsa Gabor was arrested to for slapping Beverly Hills motorcycle patrolman!

On this day in 1993, Tansu Ciller became the first woman premier of Turkey.

June 13th

2011-06-13T20:19:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1789, Mrs. Alexander Hamilton served ice cream for dessert to her Washington guests.

Born this day in 1859, Christine Terhune Herrick, author of many housekeeping books and articles. Herrick's first article was published in Good Housekeeping's first issue in 1885. Herrick's husband's died and to raise her two sons, she turned to writing. Here is a list of Mrs. Herrick's books about house-keeping and childcare.

Housekeeping Made Easy (Harpers, 1888)
Cradle and Nursery (Harpers, 1889)
Liberal Living Upon Narrow Means (Houghton, Mifflin, 1890)
What to Eat, How to Serve It (Harpers, 1891)
The Little Dinner (Scribners, 1892)
Chafing - Dish Suppers (Scribners, 1894)
The Cottage Kitchen (Scribners, 1895)
The National Cook Book (Scribners, 1896)
The Home Book for Mothers and Daughters (Christian Herald, 1897)
The New Idea Home and Cook Book (Blanchard, 1900)
First Aid to the Young Housekeeper (Scribners, 1900)
In City Tents (Putnam, 1902)
Hospitality at Small Expense (Clode, 1904)
The Expert Maid - Servant (Harpers, 1904) [16][17]
The Consolidated Library of Modern Cooking and Household Recipes (Bodmer, 1904)
The Lewis Carroll Birthday Book (Wessels, 1905)
Sunday Night Suppers (Estes, 1907)
The Cooking School (Anderson & Stoner, 1908)
Like Mother Used to Make (Estes, 1912)
The Helping Hand Cook Book (Moffat, Yard, 1912)
My Boy and I (Estes, 1913)[18]
Candy Making (Rand, McNally, 1913)
Candy Making in the Home (Rand McNally, 1914)
The ABC of Housekeeping (Harpers, 1915)
The ABC of Cooking (Harpers, 1916)
Lose Weight and Be Well (Harpers, 1917)
Letters of the Duke of Wellington to Miss J (Unwin, 1924)
Feed The Brute (Stokes, 1926)
The New Common Sense In The Household (Stokes, 1926)
Smart Supper Recipes (Page, 1928)

June 12th

2011-06-13T16:45:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1929, Anne Frank, author. The life of Anne Frank was one of supreme joy of being and love, in a time that Nazi torn through Europe destroying the lives of millions. And mostly, the Jewish People, like Anne herself.
Anne Frank with her family and friends disappeared from view, July 1942 until the Nazi were tipped off to their hiding place in August of 1944.
On this day in 1942, Anne Frank was given a gift of a diary for her birthday.
Anne's candid diary entries reveal the power of the human spirit's ability to hope and love the world and live beyond a confined space. After the arrest of Anne and her family, one of their friends collected their photos and papers, and Anne's diary, hoping to return to the Frank family. Only Anne's Father survived the concentration camps. As he read his daughter's diary, he decided to fulfill his daughter's dream of being an "a famous author or journalist".

Het Achterhuis (1947), cover of the first edition of Anne Frank's diary later translated as The Diary of a Young Girl The book has been translated into many languages and has been in print since it was published. Anne Frank's diary
has gone to inspire, films and awarding winning play.

Born this day in 1912, Eva Crane, world renown bee scientist. Crane began her science career in physics and as a quantum mathematician. But,when she married, as a wedding gift a friend gave them a colony of bees for a wedding gift It changed Mrs. Crane's life's work. Crane changed the world point of view of bees.

Dr. Crane wrote some of the most important books on bees and apiculture, including “The World History of Beekeeping and Honey Hunting” (1999). In a review in The Guardian, the author Paul Theroux, himself a beekeeper, called the book a masterwork “for its enormous scope and exhaustiveness, for being an up-to-date treasure house of apiaristic facts.”

It is said that eating honey daily, extends one's life-span. Eva Crane lived to 95.

June 11th

2011-06-11T13:17:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1769, Anne Newport Royall, author and the first professional woman journalist in the United States. In 1831, Royall created and began printing the newspaper Paul Pry dedicated itself to exposing political corruption and religious fraud!
But, before her books, her newspaper: Royall's life prepared her for this occupation. Born in Baltimore MD, raised in western Pa. and when her father died, her mother moved to western Va. Where she found work as the housekeeper of Revolutionary War veteran Maj. William Royall. And Major Royall was very happy to allow his servant's daughter access to his large library. He introduced Anne to Shakespeare to Voltaire. He shared with her that he was a mason and all masons helped each other. In 1797, Anne married Major Royall he was in his 50s and she was 28. For 15 years, Anne lived happily and without any worry of money. And sadly, this would turn out to be the only time in her life this were true. When the major died, the family questioned the will and litigation ensued until in 1819 a jury annulled the will. Anne was left with very little money.

Mrs. Royall decided on a career as a writer. She traveled around Alabama writing letters to her lawyer and friend , Matthew Dunbar. These letters carried the stories beginnings of a young state. Royall was going to sell subscriptions to publish her books (this was common practice for writers) but she needed money. So, she took the collection of letters to Dunbar, she published the book, Letters from Alabama. It was also at this time that she completed the manuscript of her first novel, The Tennessean
It was 1824, and off to Washington, D.C. Royall went to petition Congress for her deceased husband's pension as the widow of a Revolutionary War solider.
Yes, like other revolutionary windows, she appeared before Congress to plead her case.
(double standard of the woman not to have full rights as an American, and live under the law of coverture- where they only have rights under their husband and to with hold his petion to his windows)
It is these experiences that begin to open Royall's eyes to the political double standards of the law.
Little success, Royall began to travel again from Pennsylvania to New York to Boston to New Haven, keeping a very detailed log of her daily life in each town or city she stopped. She wrote about the population's size,the industry, their style of clothing, their dialects, any characters that stood out. She wrote about innkeepers who tried to charge extra and she called them out exposing them. Mrs. Royall was no one's fool.
And when she was in need, she called upon, the Masons of New York, who gave a benefit performance at the Chatham Garden Theater, raising 180 dollars. By 1826, Royall had completed her manuscript of her northern tour. Titled Sketches of History, Life and Manners in the United States, it was privately printed in New Haven. Royall was 57. The Tennessean was published a year later.
These books made many a emeniy for Royall.
In 1831, Royall moved back to Washington, DC and began to publish her first newspaper, Paul Pry. With the help of Sally Stack, the newspaper worked as a watch dog for the public. Written and printed from her home:

The paper, Paul Pry, exposed political corruption and fraud. Sold as single issues, it contained her editorials, letters to the editor and her responses, and advertisements. Royall hired orphans to set the type and faced constant financial woes, which were exacerbated when postmasters refused to deliver her issues to subscribers. until her death at age 85 in 1854, bringing an end to her 30-year news career.

I include this last section and I can't if its just folklore- but it does capture her character.
"While in Washington attempting to secure a pension, Anne caught President John Quincy Adams during one of his usual early morning baths in the Potomac River. It is commonly recounted, but apocryphal, that she gathered the president's clothes and sat on them until he answered her questions, earning her the first presidential interview ever granted."

On this day in 1897, Margaret Thatcher became the first British Prime Minister in 160years to be elected to three successive terms.

June 10th

2011-06-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1898, Hattie McDaniel, the first African American woman to win the Academy Award, for her amazing and memorial character, Mammy in the film, Gone With The Wind. McDaniel was also the first African American woman to sing on the radio.

McDaniel has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, one her acting career and the other for her contribution to radio. For not only was McDaniel an award winning film actor, but also a professional radio and stage performer as singer/song writer, and comedian. She was also a television star. She appeared in over 300 films. McDaniel was known for her generosity, elegance, and charm.
She was inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 1975 and in 2006 she became the first Black Oscar winner to be depicted on a US stamp.
The premier of Gone With The Wind took place in Atlanta, GA. And because McDaniel was Black she was banned from attending; it is hard to understand that one of the award winning stars of this film was not allowed to attend because she was black.
And when one considers the fact that Mrs. Alberta King and her son Martin Luther King, Jr. as child, performed at the premiere!

On this day in 1720, Ms. Clement of England, took to market the first paste-style mustard.

On this day in 1966, Janis Joplin, gave her first live concert at the Avalon Ballroom in San Francisco.

June 9th

2011-06-10T15:33:00.001-07:00

1970: Anna Mae Hayes (Nurse Corps), Elizabeth P. Hoisington (Women's Army Corps) become first U.S. women to be promoted to brigadier general.

Born this day in 1843, Bertha von Suttner, author and peace activist for which she received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1905. Suttner was born into wealth and aristocratic society of the Austrian court, her name then, Countess Kinsky and in this world she was blind to the rest of the world.
At the age of 30, Suttner took a companion to the four daughters of the von Suttner family and it here that she falls in love with their brother. Suttner then travels to Paris to be Alfred Nobel's secretary, but soon returns to marry Baron Arthur von Suttner. Her family strongly apposed the marriage which gave them the liberty to live in Caucasus where they live for nine years, earning a humble living teaching lessons in music and language.
This the time, Suttner wrote Es Löwos, a poetic look of their life together. Then four more novels and then her first serious book,Inventarium einer Seele, or Inventory of a Soul. Here she takes stock of who they are and their life, the inner thoughts and outer input from what they read and this concept of achieving peace. World Peace.
A visit home to Austria, the family finally accepting of the marriage. It is here they learn of the International Arbitration and Peace Associational in London and of other organizations working toward of Peace instead of armed forces.
This influences her second serious book Das Maschinenzeitalter, The Machine Age Published in 1889. This book criticizing the many aspects of the times, fortelling the danger of exaggerated nationalism and armaments.

Suttner next book she wrote as a way to support the Peace League. Die Waffen nieder [Lay Down Your Arms], published late in 1889, follows a woman who suffers all the horrors of war and by researching the actual facts, the novel has a powerful impact on the reader, it struck a nerve and the reaction was huge.
And from this Suttner becomes an active leader of the Peace Movement. Putting her energy into writing about the cause for peace. Traveling giving lectures, attending world meetings of the congresses of peace and establishing peace groups.
With her husband they worked hard to set up Hague Peace Conference of 1899. The idea of Permanent Court of Arbitration so that war could be avoided.
International Peace Congress at The Hague met yearly. Meeting find solutions that avoided war and answered the issues peacefully without harm to human life and world.
Suttner died two months before the outbreak of WW I. And like she warned, the devastation was profound.

On this day in 1970, Anna Mae Hayes (Nurse Corps), Elizabeth P. Hoisington (Women's Army Corps) became the first United States women to be promoted to brigadier general.

Oh if only Suttner's vision had come true and Hayes and Hoisington were not promoted to military generals but emissaries of Peace and Harmony of the International Peace Commission. Only if.....

June 8th

2011-06-10T14:06:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1816, Mary Lucinda Bonney, educator and advocate for Native Americans Land Rights. Bonney was educated at Troy Female Seminary. Opening her own school in 1850, Chestnut Street Female Seminary in Philadelphia. She was the president for 38 years. Bonney also active in fund raising for missionaries overseas.

But, when Bonney became aware of the plight of the Native Americans; the United States government was not honoring their land treaties with the Native American Tribes. Bonney took up the Cause.
She opened Women’s National Indian Association. Bonney lobbied Congress to return the Lands of the Native Americans back in their trust.
The white settlers moving across the Great Plains, the Native Americans reservations became smaller or disappeared. Bonney traveled across the country collecting signatures to petition Congress to honor the Native Americans homeland. In the end, Bonney collected 50,000 signatures which she presented to Congress which lead to the Dawes Act of 1887.

The Dawes Act:

The impact on Indians of the Dawes Act was negative. The act "was the culmination of American attempts to destroy tribes and their governments and to open Indian lands to settlement by non-Indians and to development by railroads."[1] Land owned by Indians decreased from 138 million acres in 1887 to 48 million acres in 1934.

And, there was a provision that any excess land could be given to any white settlers moving into the West! There was no intention to help the Tribes but to divide and conquer. And 1908, the Act was then known as The Curtus Act, which completed the process of destroying tribal government but abolishing tribal jurisdiction of Indian Land.

Bonney kept fighting the good fight for the Native American Tribes and for their land rights until her death in 1900.

June 7th

2011-06-07T18:52:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1662, Celia Fiennes,travel writer?, the first tourist of England?
Fiennes never married and moved into the London home of her married sister in 1691.
But, Fiennes traveling began in 1684,riding side-saddle and why,"to regain my health by variety and change of aire and exercise"
Now, don't think about sweet little paths and winding roads and villages...at this time, England's country side was still quiet wild. A narrow dirt road and exposed to the elements. But, Fiennes joy and enthusiasm kept her going. And the concept of traveling just to travel was not at all common. She kept a journal of her adventures, not with the idea of publishing, but for her family's entertainment.
She wrote about the great houses that were just being built, and the castles she stayed in- this was a time if a lady or gentleman showed up at your castle door, room was made for them. Fiennes wrote about her mis-adventures her interest in the funtion of bridges, and any manner of new structures of the times, that she found along the road. A fall here or there, but she was never injured.
Some travel was with relatives, but in 1698, Fiennes made her, "Great Journey to Newcastle and Cornwell" which she made by still riding side saddle "with only a servant or two". Her travels winded down by 1712, Fiennes travels took her to every county of England. Making Celia Fiennes the first woman to acommplish this feat!
In 1812, Robert Southey published extracts from Fiennes travel journals. Then in 1888, a more complete edition came out.
In 1947, Christopher Morris published "The Journeys of Celia Fiennes".
Fiennes travel journals have continued to stay in print in one form or another.
Oh and the nursery rhyme, Banbury Cross is about Celia Fiennes

Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross
To see a fine lady upon a white horse
With rings on her fingers and bells on her toes
She shall have music wherever she goes

On this day in Mary Terrell wins the stuggle to end segregation in Washington D.C. restarants.

June 6th

2011-06-07T18:21:00.001-07:00

Born this day in 1939, Marian Wright Edelman, activist,advocate for children, founder and president of the Children's Defense Fund. Edelman was the first African American woman admitted to the Mississippi Bar.
Edelman's passion for the well being of children convinced congress to overhaul foster care, support adoption, improve child care, protect children who are disabled, homeless, abused, and neglected.

“If you don’t like the way the world is, you have an obligation to change it. Just do it one step at a time.”[3]
Edelman has been honored with the, MacArthur Fellowship, Albert Schweitzer Prize for Humanitarianism, Boy Scouts of America, Silver Buffalo Award. And in 2000 the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

June 5th

2011-06-05T20:02:00.000-07:00

Born this day in 1646, Elena Cornaro Piscopia, the first woman to receive a doctrine degree. A daughter of Italian nobility, Piscopia's education began at the age of seven, studies in Greek, Latin, grammar, music, mathematics, astronomy, but her favorite subjects were philosophy and theology. A talent for languages, Piscopia added Hebrew, Spanish, French, and Arabic. Fluent in all these languages.
Piscopia's father sent her to the University of Padua to further her studies. A little unusual for the time. She only sought to continue her education but her father wanted his daughter to be recognized for her accomplishments. The Catholic Church did not want to Doctor of Theology upon a woman.
Piscopia applied again with her father's support and the Church allowed Piscopia to apply for a Doctorate of Philosophy.

Elena applied, again, at her father's insistence. This time the Church agreed Elena Piscopia could apply for a Doctorate of Philosophy.
The news spread and the University Hall for which the examination was to take place was too small for all who came to watch and so it was moved to the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin, Padua.
Elena Piscopia impressed her examiners. June 25th, 1678,Piscopia received the Doctrine of Philosophy degree from the University of Padua. Crowned with the Laurel Crown with a Doctor's Ring, Teacher's Ermine cape. Piscopia became the first woman to receive a Doctorate degree. She was 32.

June 4th

2011-06-05T11:55:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1917 the very 1st Pulitzer Prize were awarded to three women,Laura E. Richards, Maude H. Elliott and Florence Hall for their biography of Julia Ward Howe.
There several others given out on that day, but these amazing women were the very first.

On this day in 1919,the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution passes by the U.S. Senate.

On this day in 1988 Kay Cottee sails into Sydney and becoming the first woman to circle the globe alone.

June 3rd

2011-06-03T20:19:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1972, Sally J. Priesand became the first female Rabbi in the United States. The very first female Rabbi was Regina Jonus and she was ordained Dec. 1935, in Berlin, Germany. check out August 03,06 blog entry

Born this day in 1906, Josephine Baker, she was an amazing performer. And owner of the Parisian night club, Folies-Bergere.

June 2nd

2011-06-03T13:05:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1863, Harriet Tubman lead Union guerrilas in to Maryland to free slaves.

On this day in 1930, the Presbyterian Church named Sarah Dickson the 1st woman Elder in the United States.

June 1st

2011-06-01T19:03:00.001-07:00

On this day in 1657, the Quakers arrived in New Amsterdam (New York).

On this day in 1660, Mary Dyer was hanged in Boston, Mass. Dyer was a follower of Anne Hutchinson. Quakerism was the faith that Dyer preached and was banished from Massachusetts. But, she did return.

She died a martyr, as she was hanged on Boston Common for the crime of being a Quaker in Massachusetts. Her execution is described by Edward Burrough in A Declaration of the Sad and Great Persecution and Martyrdom of the People of God, called Quakers, in New-England, for the Worshipping of God (1661).

On this day in 1993, Connie Chung joined Dan Rather as anchors of CBS Evening News.

May 31st

2011-05-31T09:54:00.000-07:00

While researching women's herstory it is hard to find stories that date earlier than the 16th century. But, today's date does carry two- all the "today in history' had these exact words:
1531 "Women's Revolt" in Amsterdam: wool house in churchyard aborted But, what does that mean? wool house and aborted?? in a churchyard?
Well, the burgomasters of Amsterdam decided to build a storehouse for wool on The Holy Place (why was it Holy? In 1345, a dying man had just received the holy sacrament, and then vomited right back up and the vomit was thrown into the fire and in the morning when the coals were raked over the sacrament was found to be still a prefect white and in tact making this location, The Holy Place). So when in 1531, the government want to build this storehouse for wool in this very Holy Place... The pious women of Amsterdam petitioned the burgomasters not to commit this horror in The Holy Place. But, the burgomasters unmoved began to dig the foundation for the wool storehouse.
And on this night, so very long ago, 300 pious women with shovels in hand refilled the foundation dirt back into the holes dug that day. And this was, The Women's Uprising of 1531 or revolt of 1531.

We have another early date. On this day in 1678, Lady Godiva rode nude through Coventry,England in protest of taxes. Really, so when this event dates anywhere between 1012 to 1678 and to Godiva's nakedness...Godiva was said to have had very long hair that covered her nude body or maybe it was shift or a just a belt. And Peeping Tom is connected to this legend; he was struck blind for peeping at Godiva! And there are many, many, many women who enjoy being photographed butt naked while riding a horse. Now, if they were all eating that yummy Godiva chocolate while riding a horse.

Born this day in 1912, Chien-Shiung Wu, physicist. Wu was part of the team that worked on the "Manhattan Project", because of her expertise in techniques of experimental physics and radioactivity.
(She helped to develop the process for separating uranium metal into the U-235 and U-238 isotopes by gaseous diffusion).
Wu also is well known for her experiments that overturned the basic law of physics called parity conservation and revolutionized the study of particle physics
Wu, also a professor at Columbia, has combined scientific rigor with the joy and mystery of the creative spirit. She was nicknamed The First Lady of Physic.

May 30th

2011-05-30T13:39:00.001-07:00

On this day, Mrs. Mary Logan, married to Congressman John Logan suggested that the observation of Decoration Day should be changed to "Memorial Day" in the year 1868.

Born this day in 1794, Zilpah Polly Grant Baninster, founder of Female Seminary in Ipswich, Massachusetts in 1828. Baninster was an advocate for women's education, and aide this cause, she founded the school. Baninster felt that education should not be approached for grades but for the joy of learning.

On this day in 1431, Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. She was 19 years old. This young woman's story has inspired artists to paint, write poetry, films, plays and still inspire people. A young girl from a poor home and no education, she believed God sent her a message to help her people and King in a time of great unrest and war. Today is also the Feast of Joan of Arc.