Andrea/Cara here: As someone writes both historical mysteries and historical romance, I think a lot about women and their place in history. In creating a heroine, it can sometimes be a delicate balance. On one hand I believe human nature hasn’t changes all that much over the centuries, and so every era had its fair share of brilliant, talented, curious women who pursued their passions despite whatever strictures existed in the society of their times.
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And then, of course, on the other hand are readers who will wave the rule book and argue that—for example—a Regency lady would never explore the Middle East, write feminist manifestos or become one of the top astronomers in the world. (As you guessed, there are real life examples who have done just that.)
The trouble is, there are precious few role models for inspiration when we look to craft a female character. We authors just don’t have the same depth and texture to choose from as we do with men. There are, of course, many reasons for this, the most basic being that under very recently it was men who wrote history. And sadly—as this current climate has highlighted—all too often women are only written into history because of their sexuality rather than their achievements.
Another reason—a more positive one—I’ve been thinking of the topic is because I was talking about it at lunch the other day with a wonderful non-fiction writer whose WIP is about a turn-of-the-century woman who is amazingly accomplished but unknown to most. (Sorry, I can’t say more as I am sworn to secrecy, but it’s going to be a fabulous book!) And so we started chatting about all the unsung heroines in history and all the astounding stories that are out there, just waiting to be discovered and told . . .
There must have been some karmic buzz in the cosmos, for the very next day I stumbled upon a fascinating article on Aaron Burr’s daughter—a real life story that, while little known, has inspired novels and poetry and countless legends. So let’s take a quick look at one of those interesting women hidden in history.
It all starts with a painting . . .
According to historical accounts, a doctor was summoned to care for an impoverished elderly woman in Nags Head, on the Outer Banks islands of North Carolina in the 1869. He spotted a small painting of a beautiful young lady on the wall, and his patient told him of it having been found in a shipwreck that had washed ashore many years ago. He knew the story of Theodosia Burr Alston being lost at sea, and guessed it was her. (The painting, which the woman gave to him in payment for his services, now hangs in the Lewis Walpole Library of Yale University.)
From the moment of her birth, Theodosia lived a life of high drama and adventure. Her mother—also named Theodosia—was brilliant, cultured lady who stirred great scandal by marrying the much younger Aaron Burr on the death of her first husband. (Rumor has it that they were involved before her widowhood.) Her parents doted on her, and when her mother died during Theodosia’s childhood, her father became even more involved in her upbringing.
Those of you who know American history are aware of Burr’s complex and complicated character. A Founding Father of the country and its third vice president under Jefferson, he was also involved in a number of shady, and ultimately scandalous, endeavors. Be that as it may, he had very progressive ideas on women. He believed they were the intellectual equals of men, and had a portrait of Mary Wollstonecraft under over his mantel. And as a member of the New York state legislature, he proposed a bill allowing women to vote.
Theodosia was educated according to these enlightened principles. “I hope yet by her to convince the world what neither sex seems to believe,” wrote Burr, “that women have soul!” She had a rigorous education, studying the full range of subjects normally taught to men, and was, by all accounts, both brilliant and witty.
In 1801, she married Joseph Alston, a wealthy and influential Southern gentleman from South Carolina. The marriage was a happy one, but the birth of her son, Aaron Burr Alston, was a difficult one and left her permanently in pain for the rest of her life. Still devoted to her father, (she would remain so her entire life) Theodosia spent half of each year with him in New York, as she found adjusting to plantation life difficult.
After her father’s duel with Alexander Hamilton, she and her husband spent a great deal of time and money helping to ensure he escaped prosecution for killing his rival. When Burr—whose political career was destroyed by the duel—decided to head west, with dreams of establishing and presiding a large settlement in lands acquired by the Louisiana Purchase. Theodosia and her husband went with him (apparently bankrolling the expedition.) However, rumor had it that Burr planned to establish a kingdom with himself as emperor and secede from the United States. He was arrested and tried for treason in 1807. And again, Theodosia and her husband helped him win acquittal.
To let the scandal die down, Burr headed off to England. Theodosia’s life then began to spiral into depression. Her health was failing, and in 1812, her beloved son died of malaria. Her father had recently returned to New York, and desperate to see him, she decided to travel north, despite the fact that the War of 1812 was raging and hostile ships were patrolling the coast. Her husband, who had just been elected Governor of South Carolina, couldn’t leave his responsibilities, so Burr sent a trusted friend to accompany his daughter to New York. Their schooner, The Patriot, set sail on December 1812—and was never seen again.
Theodosia’s disappearance set off countless speculation—in some stories she was kidnapped by a pirate king and was living as his mistress. In others, she had simply been murdered by the marauders. (There were a number of deathbed confessions from men claiming to have witnessed her capture.) Such tales inspired novels and poems—including one by Robert Frost. And to this day, it’s said her ghost haunts Bald Head Island. However, the truth is likely that the ship foundered in gale that is known to have blown in over the exact route her ship was sailing.
I found the story fascinating, and I know it’s just one of the countless ones throughout history of strong, courageous women who experienced life outside the cozy confines of the proverbial kitchen. How about you? Have you any favorite unsung heroines—or heroes—in history who don’t fit the traditional mold? Would you like to see history written more in a way that reflects the contributions of all the people who make up its rich tapestry?
Yes, a fascinating story. I just recently came across a woman who probably isn’t unknown, just unknown to me. I have always liked still life/floral painting from the Dutch Golden Age, and I saw one on the internet by a painter I had never heard of—Ruysch. So I looked the painter up and discovered it was Rachel Ruysch, who was one of the most famous artists of her day. She had a sixty-year career, starting when she was 18. She married and had ten children.
In short, back in the 17th and 18th centuries, it sounds as if a woman could have it all!
Yes, a fascinating story. I just recently came across a woman who probably isn’t unknown, just unknown to me. I have always liked still life/floral painting from the Dutch Golden Age, and I saw one on the internet by a painter I had never heard of—Ruysch. So I looked the painter up and discovered it was Rachel Ruysch, who was one of the most famous artists of her day. She had a sixty-year career, starting when she was 18. She married and had ten children.
In short, back in the 17th and 18th centuries, it sounds as if a woman could have it all!
Yes, a fascinating story. I just recently came across a woman who probably isn’t unknown, just unknown to me. I have always liked still life/floral painting from the Dutch Golden Age, and I saw one on the internet by a painter I had never heard of—Ruysch. So I looked the painter up and discovered it was Rachel Ruysch, who was one of the most famous artists of her day. She had a sixty-year career, starting when she was 18. She married and had ten children.
In short, back in the 17th and 18th centuries, it sounds as if a woman could have it all!
Yes, a fascinating story. I just recently came across a woman who probably isn’t unknown, just unknown to me. I have always liked still life/floral painting from the Dutch Golden Age, and I saw one on the internet by a painter I had never heard of—Ruysch. So I looked the painter up and discovered it was Rachel Ruysch, who was one of the most famous artists of her day. She had a sixty-year career, starting when she was 18. She married and had ten children.
In short, back in the 17th and 18th centuries, it sounds as if a woman could have it all!
Yes, a fascinating story. I just recently came across a woman who probably isn’t unknown, just unknown to me. I have always liked still life/floral painting from the Dutch Golden Age, and I saw one on the internet by a painter I had never heard of—Ruysch. So I looked the painter up and discovered it was Rachel Ruysch, who was one of the most famous artists of her day. She had a sixty-year career, starting when she was 18. She married and had ten children.
In short, back in the 17th and 18th centuries, it sounds as if a woman could have it all!
They could have it all if they were well off enough to have help in the household, similar to today.
They could have it all if they were well off enough to have help in the household, similar to today.
They could have it all if they were well off enough to have help in the household, similar to today.
They could have it all if they were well off enough to have help in the household, similar to today.
They could have it all if they were well off enough to have help in the household, similar to today.
Another interesting woman that I have heard a little about but haven’t looked into deeply is the daughter of Lord Byron and Lady Caroline Lamb. I believe her name was Ava, though don’t take that as gospel. She was apparently a mathematical genius who did a good deal of work that was foundational for the development of the computer.
Another interesting woman that I have heard a little about but haven’t looked into deeply is the daughter of Lord Byron and Lady Caroline Lamb. I believe her name was Ava, though don’t take that as gospel. She was apparently a mathematical genius who did a good deal of work that was foundational for the development of the computer.
Another interesting woman that I have heard a little about but haven’t looked into deeply is the daughter of Lord Byron and Lady Caroline Lamb. I believe her name was Ava, though don’t take that as gospel. She was apparently a mathematical genius who did a good deal of work that was foundational for the development of the computer.
Another interesting woman that I have heard a little about but haven’t looked into deeply is the daughter of Lord Byron and Lady Caroline Lamb. I believe her name was Ava, though don’t take that as gospel. She was apparently a mathematical genius who did a good deal of work that was foundational for the development of the computer.
Another interesting woman that I have heard a little about but haven’t looked into deeply is the daughter of Lord Byron and Lady Caroline Lamb. I believe her name was Ava, though don’t take that as gospel. She was apparently a mathematical genius who did a good deal of work that was foundational for the development of the computer.
Fascinating, Lillian! I didn’t realize Ruysch was a woman! Art was the one area in which it was a little easier for women to be accepted throughout the centuries. But still, they were rarely given the same respect and accolades, even when their talents merited them.
Fascinating, Lillian! I didn’t realize Ruysch was a woman! Art was the one area in which it was a little easier for women to be accepted throughout the centuries. But still, they were rarely given the same respect and accolades, even when their talents merited them.
Fascinating, Lillian! I didn’t realize Ruysch was a woman! Art was the one area in which it was a little easier for women to be accepted throughout the centuries. But still, they were rarely given the same respect and accolades, even when their talents merited them.
Fascinating, Lillian! I didn’t realize Ruysch was a woman! Art was the one area in which it was a little easier for women to be accepted throughout the centuries. But still, they were rarely given the same respect and accolades, even when their talents merited them.
Fascinating, Lillian! I didn’t realize Ruysch was a woman! Art was the one area in which it was a little easier for women to be accepted throughout the centuries. But still, they were rarely given the same respect and accolades, even when their talents merited them.
Yes—very good point, Kathy.
Yes—very good point, Kathy.
Yes—very good point, Kathy.
Yes—very good point, Kathy.
Yes—very good point, Kathy.
Kathy, actually the woman you mean is Ada Byron Lovelace, who was the legitimate daughter of Byron and his wife Ann Isabella Byron. Ada was indeed a math whiz and worked with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine, which was indeed the first “computer. She is credited with writing the first computer program!
It’s nice to see that in recent years she is getting more and more credit for her achievements. Walter Isaacson did a whole chapter on her in his book The Innovators, and the defense Department has names one of his main computer languages ADA in her honor.
Kathy, actually the woman you mean is Ada Byron Lovelace, who was the legitimate daughter of Byron and his wife Ann Isabella Byron. Ada was indeed a math whiz and worked with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine, which was indeed the first “computer. She is credited with writing the first computer program!
It’s nice to see that in recent years she is getting more and more credit for her achievements. Walter Isaacson did a whole chapter on her in his book The Innovators, and the defense Department has names one of his main computer languages ADA in her honor.
Kathy, actually the woman you mean is Ada Byron Lovelace, who was the legitimate daughter of Byron and his wife Ann Isabella Byron. Ada was indeed a math whiz and worked with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine, which was indeed the first “computer. She is credited with writing the first computer program!
It’s nice to see that in recent years she is getting more and more credit for her achievements. Walter Isaacson did a whole chapter on her in his book The Innovators, and the defense Department has names one of his main computer languages ADA in her honor.
Kathy, actually the woman you mean is Ada Byron Lovelace, who was the legitimate daughter of Byron and his wife Ann Isabella Byron. Ada was indeed a math whiz and worked with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine, which was indeed the first “computer. She is credited with writing the first computer program!
It’s nice to see that in recent years she is getting more and more credit for her achievements. Walter Isaacson did a whole chapter on her in his book The Innovators, and the defense Department has names one of his main computer languages ADA in her honor.
Kathy, actually the woman you mean is Ada Byron Lovelace, who was the legitimate daughter of Byron and his wife Ann Isabella Byron. Ada was indeed a math whiz and worked with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine, which was indeed the first “computer. She is credited with writing the first computer program!
It’s nice to see that in recent years she is getting more and more credit for her achievements. Walter Isaacson did a whole chapter on her in his book The Innovators, and the defense Department has names one of his main computer languages ADA in her honor.
In the 19th-century women started to be managers of theatre companies. Laura Keene was not the first to do this, but she was the first to control a large, first-class house and compete in the same league as established male managers.
She was starring in and managing the production of “Our American Counsin” in Ford’s Theatre and convinced President Lincoln to see an evening performance. When it led to his assassination, many people blamed Keene for inviting him in the first place!
Kate Mulgrew played her on the stage in a hilarious and poignant play by Charles Busch.
In the 19th-century women started to be managers of theatre companies. Laura Keene was not the first to do this, but she was the first to control a large, first-class house and compete in the same league as established male managers.
She was starring in and managing the production of “Our American Counsin” in Ford’s Theatre and convinced President Lincoln to see an evening performance. When it led to his assassination, many people blamed Keene for inviting him in the first place!
Kate Mulgrew played her on the stage in a hilarious and poignant play by Charles Busch.
In the 19th-century women started to be managers of theatre companies. Laura Keene was not the first to do this, but she was the first to control a large, first-class house and compete in the same league as established male managers.
She was starring in and managing the production of “Our American Counsin” in Ford’s Theatre and convinced President Lincoln to see an evening performance. When it led to his assassination, many people blamed Keene for inviting him in the first place!
Kate Mulgrew played her on the stage in a hilarious and poignant play by Charles Busch.
In the 19th-century women started to be managers of theatre companies. Laura Keene was not the first to do this, but she was the first to control a large, first-class house and compete in the same league as established male managers.
She was starring in and managing the production of “Our American Counsin” in Ford’s Theatre and convinced President Lincoln to see an evening performance. When it led to his assassination, many people blamed Keene for inviting him in the first place!
Kate Mulgrew played her on the stage in a hilarious and poignant play by Charles Busch.
In the 19th-century women started to be managers of theatre companies. Laura Keene was not the first to do this, but she was the first to control a large, first-class house and compete in the same league as established male managers.
She was starring in and managing the production of “Our American Counsin” in Ford’s Theatre and convinced President Lincoln to see an evening performance. When it led to his assassination, many people blamed Keene for inviting him in the first place!
Kate Mulgrew played her on the stage in a hilarious and poignant play by Charles Busch.
A fascinating post. I believe I identified Hester(?) Stanhope as the woman who explored the mid East (thank you Mary Stewart), but who was the astronomer?
A fascinating post. I believe I identified Hester(?) Stanhope as the woman who explored the mid East (thank you Mary Stewart), but who was the astronomer?
A fascinating post. I believe I identified Hester(?) Stanhope as the woman who explored the mid East (thank you Mary Stewart), but who was the astronomer?
A fascinating post. I believe I identified Hester(?) Stanhope as the woman who explored the mid East (thank you Mary Stewart), but who was the astronomer?
A fascinating post. I believe I identified Hester(?) Stanhope as the woman who explored the mid East (thank you Mary Stewart), but who was the astronomer?
Thanks, Patricia! I had heard her name, but hadn’t realized she actually ran the company. Such wonderful “unsung women” stories out there.
Thanks, Patricia! I had heard her name, but hadn’t realized she actually ran the company. Such wonderful “unsung women” stories out there.
Thanks, Patricia! I had heard her name, but hadn’t realized she actually ran the company. Such wonderful “unsung women” stories out there.
Thanks, Patricia! I had heard her name, but hadn’t realized she actually ran the company. Such wonderful “unsung women” stories out there.
Thanks, Patricia! I had heard her name, but hadn’t realized she actually ran the company. Such wonderful “unsung women” stories out there.
Yes, Sue—Hester Stanhope! The astronomer was Caroline Herschel.
Yes, Sue—Hester Stanhope! The astronomer was Caroline Herschel.
Yes, Sue—Hester Stanhope! The astronomer was Caroline Herschel.
Yes, Sue—Hester Stanhope! The astronomer was Caroline Herschel.
Yes, Sue—Hester Stanhope! The astronomer was Caroline Herschel.
Caroline Herschel.
Caroline Herschel.
Caroline Herschel.
Caroline Herschel.
Caroline Herschel.
yes would love to see history written giving credit to whomever deserves it regardless of gender, religion or color but as I am now 79 it won’t happen in my lifetime but I am hopeful for my grandchildren. But until we can get the publishers of history textbooks to dump out the obvious falsehoods, like the one where the blacks came from Africa to be farmers, really? not slaves? Has to be true fact checking and not letting one or two people in Texas deciding what goes in the books ( and in case you think I am making this up check it out) I have always loved history but since the telling went to the victors, hard to tell what was true. But fun to read different takes by different authors.My rant for the day. Jan
yes would love to see history written giving credit to whomever deserves it regardless of gender, religion or color but as I am now 79 it won’t happen in my lifetime but I am hopeful for my grandchildren. But until we can get the publishers of history textbooks to dump out the obvious falsehoods, like the one where the blacks came from Africa to be farmers, really? not slaves? Has to be true fact checking and not letting one or two people in Texas deciding what goes in the books ( and in case you think I am making this up check it out) I have always loved history but since the telling went to the victors, hard to tell what was true. But fun to read different takes by different authors.My rant for the day. Jan
yes would love to see history written giving credit to whomever deserves it regardless of gender, religion or color but as I am now 79 it won’t happen in my lifetime but I am hopeful for my grandchildren. But until we can get the publishers of history textbooks to dump out the obvious falsehoods, like the one where the blacks came from Africa to be farmers, really? not slaves? Has to be true fact checking and not letting one or two people in Texas deciding what goes in the books ( and in case you think I am making this up check it out) I have always loved history but since the telling went to the victors, hard to tell what was true. But fun to read different takes by different authors.My rant for the day. Jan
yes would love to see history written giving credit to whomever deserves it regardless of gender, religion or color but as I am now 79 it won’t happen in my lifetime but I am hopeful for my grandchildren. But until we can get the publishers of history textbooks to dump out the obvious falsehoods, like the one where the blacks came from Africa to be farmers, really? not slaves? Has to be true fact checking and not letting one or two people in Texas deciding what goes in the books ( and in case you think I am making this up check it out) I have always loved history but since the telling went to the victors, hard to tell what was true. But fun to read different takes by different authors.My rant for the day. Jan
yes would love to see history written giving credit to whomever deserves it regardless of gender, religion or color but as I am now 79 it won’t happen in my lifetime but I am hopeful for my grandchildren. But until we can get the publishers of history textbooks to dump out the obvious falsehoods, like the one where the blacks came from Africa to be farmers, really? not slaves? Has to be true fact checking and not letting one or two people in Texas deciding what goes in the books ( and in case you think I am making this up check it out) I have always loved history but since the telling went to the victors, hard to tell what was true. But fun to read different takes by different authors.My rant for the day. Jan
Jan, you are so right that it will take time. And as you point out, there are a LOT of things to change in order to all the many important stories told that have for y too long been ignored. (Oh, don’t get me started about textbooks! I have a good friend who’s an eminent evolutionary biologist at a university, and you can imagine what he says when her hears school boards still trying to fight teaching evolution!)
Sigh. But some progress is being made. More and more people who have not fit the mold of being “history-worthy” are beginning to get the recognition they deserve.
Jan, you are so right that it will take time. And as you point out, there are a LOT of things to change in order to all the many important stories told that have for y too long been ignored. (Oh, don’t get me started about textbooks! I have a good friend who’s an eminent evolutionary biologist at a university, and you can imagine what he says when her hears school boards still trying to fight teaching evolution!)
Sigh. But some progress is being made. More and more people who have not fit the mold of being “history-worthy” are beginning to get the recognition they deserve.
Jan, you are so right that it will take time. And as you point out, there are a LOT of things to change in order to all the many important stories told that have for y too long been ignored. (Oh, don’t get me started about textbooks! I have a good friend who’s an eminent evolutionary biologist at a university, and you can imagine what he says when her hears school boards still trying to fight teaching evolution!)
Sigh. But some progress is being made. More and more people who have not fit the mold of being “history-worthy” are beginning to get the recognition they deserve.
Jan, you are so right that it will take time. And as you point out, there are a LOT of things to change in order to all the many important stories told that have for y too long been ignored. (Oh, don’t get me started about textbooks! I have a good friend who’s an eminent evolutionary biologist at a university, and you can imagine what he says when her hears school boards still trying to fight teaching evolution!)
Sigh. But some progress is being made. More and more people who have not fit the mold of being “history-worthy” are beginning to get the recognition they deserve.
Jan, you are so right that it will take time. And as you point out, there are a LOT of things to change in order to all the many important stories told that have for y too long been ignored. (Oh, don’t get me started about textbooks! I have a good friend who’s an eminent evolutionary biologist at a university, and you can imagine what he says when her hears school boards still trying to fight teaching evolution!)
Sigh. But some progress is being made. More and more people who have not fit the mold of being “history-worthy” are beginning to get the recognition they deserve.
In all ages there have been women who contributed hugely but there is little trace of their role – which is why it’s so fascinating to try and uncover what we can. And as for women not travelling [to the Middle East or elsewhere], just remember Jane Austen’s Persuasion, where she tells us Admiral Croft’s wife accompanied him in all his voyages. From this we learn that some wives did travel with their husbands.
In all ages there have been women who contributed hugely but there is little trace of their role – which is why it’s so fascinating to try and uncover what we can. And as for women not travelling [to the Middle East or elsewhere], just remember Jane Austen’s Persuasion, where she tells us Admiral Croft’s wife accompanied him in all his voyages. From this we learn that some wives did travel with their husbands.
In all ages there have been women who contributed hugely but there is little trace of their role – which is why it’s so fascinating to try and uncover what we can. And as for women not travelling [to the Middle East or elsewhere], just remember Jane Austen’s Persuasion, where she tells us Admiral Croft’s wife accompanied him in all his voyages. From this we learn that some wives did travel with their husbands.
In all ages there have been women who contributed hugely but there is little trace of their role – which is why it’s so fascinating to try and uncover what we can. And as for women not travelling [to the Middle East or elsewhere], just remember Jane Austen’s Persuasion, where she tells us Admiral Croft’s wife accompanied him in all his voyages. From this we learn that some wives did travel with their husbands.
In all ages there have been women who contributed hugely but there is little trace of their role – which is why it’s so fascinating to try and uncover what we can. And as for women not travelling [to the Middle East or elsewhere], just remember Jane Austen’s Persuasion, where she tells us Admiral Croft’s wife accompanied him in all his voyages. From this we learn that some wives did travel with their husbands.
Thank you for putting me straight. There was some grain of truth in there but not a lot of accuracy on my part.
Thank you for putting me straight. There was some grain of truth in there but not a lot of accuracy on my part.
Thank you for putting me straight. There was some grain of truth in there but not a lot of accuracy on my part.
Thank you for putting me straight. There was some grain of truth in there but not a lot of accuracy on my part.
Thank you for putting me straight. There was some grain of truth in there but not a lot of accuracy on my part.
Why don’t we learn facts like this when studying art/history? Because they are women!
Why don’t we learn facts like this when studying art/history? Because they are women!
Why don’t we learn facts like this when studying art/history? Because they are women!
Why don’t we learn facts like this when studying art/history? Because they are women!
Why don’t we learn facts like this when studying art/history? Because they are women!
Not just yes, but hell yes!
Not just yes, but hell yes!
Not just yes, but hell yes!
Not just yes, but hell yes!
Not just yes, but hell yes!
Back to Theodosa, there is a book by Anya Seten titled My Theodosa that is about Lewis Merriweather and her (If I remember correctly– it has been a long time.) He apparently loved her but she married elsewhere.
Back to Theodosa, there is a book by Anya Seten titled My Theodosa that is about Lewis Merriweather and her (If I remember correctly– it has been a long time.) He apparently loved her but she married elsewhere.
Back to Theodosa, there is a book by Anya Seten titled My Theodosa that is about Lewis Merriweather and her (If I remember correctly– it has been a long time.) He apparently loved her but she married elsewhere.
Back to Theodosa, there is a book by Anya Seten titled My Theodosa that is about Lewis Merriweather and her (If I remember correctly– it has been a long time.) He apparently loved her but she married elsewhere.
Back to Theodosa, there is a book by Anya Seten titled My Theodosa that is about Lewis Merriweather and her (If I remember correctly– it has been a long time.) He apparently loved her but she married elsewhere.
Interesting point, Beth. I’ve read in other accounts about naval wives sailing with their husbands. I think there were far more intrepid women than we ever hear about. And hopefully the stories will keep getting discovered.
Interesting point, Beth. I’ve read in other accounts about naval wives sailing with their husbands. I think there were far more intrepid women than we ever hear about. And hopefully the stories will keep getting discovered.
Interesting point, Beth. I’ve read in other accounts about naval wives sailing with their husbands. I think there were far more intrepid women than we ever hear about. And hopefully the stories will keep getting discovered.
Interesting point, Beth. I’ve read in other accounts about naval wives sailing with their husbands. I think there were far more intrepid women than we ever hear about. And hopefully the stories will keep getting discovered.
Interesting point, Beth. I’ve read in other accounts about naval wives sailing with their husbands. I think there were far more intrepid women than we ever hear about. And hopefully the stories will keep getting discovered.
Leslie, I haven’t read the book, so am not sure about this.
Leslie, I haven’t read the book, so am not sure about this.
Leslie, I haven’t read the book, so am not sure about this.
Leslie, I haven’t read the book, so am not sure about this.
Leslie, I haven’t read the book, so am not sure about this.
Fascinating story and one I had not heard before today. The problem with history is it was written and is being rewritten to suit an agenda. History should never be twisted to fit an agenda. It should not be edited so as not to offend anyone. History was and is made by flawed human beings, products of the morals and laws and character judgements of the times. You don’t get to make it, unmake it or remake it to suit whatever political or religious group screams the loudest or has the backing of the media or whatever other group that has elected itself to tell us how to think. History simply is. I wish those who write history would try doing what I do when I research something for one of my novels. I check as many sources as I can to make certain I get the FACTS right. And if my research tells me it didn’t happen that way or they didn’t say it that way then I am out of luck. Those who write the history books should try it.
I am reminded of a line from the musical 1776. They are drafting the Declaration of Independence and they keep having trouble with the wording because they don’t want to offend their brethren in England, they don’t want to give offense to the king, etc. John Addams finally says “It’s a revolution! We’re going to have to offend SOMEONE!”
History is usually made by those who hear the insults, the naysayers, and the pundits of doom and they just go ahead and do it anyway.
Try reading about Mary Seacole. She was a Jamaican born nurse of mixed race who when the British military refused to send her to the Crimea to care for the wounded funded her own trip and set up the British Hotel which provided food, nursing, and comfort to British soldiers. Her fame in her day rivaled that of Florence Nightingale, but her story is not taught in schools and it damned well should be.
Fascinating story and one I had not heard before today. The problem with history is it was written and is being rewritten to suit an agenda. History should never be twisted to fit an agenda. It should not be edited so as not to offend anyone. History was and is made by flawed human beings, products of the morals and laws and character judgements of the times. You don’t get to make it, unmake it or remake it to suit whatever political or religious group screams the loudest or has the backing of the media or whatever other group that has elected itself to tell us how to think. History simply is. I wish those who write history would try doing what I do when I research something for one of my novels. I check as many sources as I can to make certain I get the FACTS right. And if my research tells me it didn’t happen that way or they didn’t say it that way then I am out of luck. Those who write the history books should try it.
I am reminded of a line from the musical 1776. They are drafting the Declaration of Independence and they keep having trouble with the wording because they don’t want to offend their brethren in England, they don’t want to give offense to the king, etc. John Addams finally says “It’s a revolution! We’re going to have to offend SOMEONE!”
History is usually made by those who hear the insults, the naysayers, and the pundits of doom and they just go ahead and do it anyway.
Try reading about Mary Seacole. She was a Jamaican born nurse of mixed race who when the British military refused to send her to the Crimea to care for the wounded funded her own trip and set up the British Hotel which provided food, nursing, and comfort to British soldiers. Her fame in her day rivaled that of Florence Nightingale, but her story is not taught in schools and it damned well should be.
Fascinating story and one I had not heard before today. The problem with history is it was written and is being rewritten to suit an agenda. History should never be twisted to fit an agenda. It should not be edited so as not to offend anyone. History was and is made by flawed human beings, products of the morals and laws and character judgements of the times. You don’t get to make it, unmake it or remake it to suit whatever political or religious group screams the loudest or has the backing of the media or whatever other group that has elected itself to tell us how to think. History simply is. I wish those who write history would try doing what I do when I research something for one of my novels. I check as many sources as I can to make certain I get the FACTS right. And if my research tells me it didn’t happen that way or they didn’t say it that way then I am out of luck. Those who write the history books should try it.
I am reminded of a line from the musical 1776. They are drafting the Declaration of Independence and they keep having trouble with the wording because they don’t want to offend their brethren in England, they don’t want to give offense to the king, etc. John Addams finally says “It’s a revolution! We’re going to have to offend SOMEONE!”
History is usually made by those who hear the insults, the naysayers, and the pundits of doom and they just go ahead and do it anyway.
Try reading about Mary Seacole. She was a Jamaican born nurse of mixed race who when the British military refused to send her to the Crimea to care for the wounded funded her own trip and set up the British Hotel which provided food, nursing, and comfort to British soldiers. Her fame in her day rivaled that of Florence Nightingale, but her story is not taught in schools and it damned well should be.
Fascinating story and one I had not heard before today. The problem with history is it was written and is being rewritten to suit an agenda. History should never be twisted to fit an agenda. It should not be edited so as not to offend anyone. History was and is made by flawed human beings, products of the morals and laws and character judgements of the times. You don’t get to make it, unmake it or remake it to suit whatever political or religious group screams the loudest or has the backing of the media or whatever other group that has elected itself to tell us how to think. History simply is. I wish those who write history would try doing what I do when I research something for one of my novels. I check as many sources as I can to make certain I get the FACTS right. And if my research tells me it didn’t happen that way or they didn’t say it that way then I am out of luck. Those who write the history books should try it.
I am reminded of a line from the musical 1776. They are drafting the Declaration of Independence and they keep having trouble with the wording because they don’t want to offend their brethren in England, they don’t want to give offense to the king, etc. John Addams finally says “It’s a revolution! We’re going to have to offend SOMEONE!”
History is usually made by those who hear the insults, the naysayers, and the pundits of doom and they just go ahead and do it anyway.
Try reading about Mary Seacole. She was a Jamaican born nurse of mixed race who when the British military refused to send her to the Crimea to care for the wounded funded her own trip and set up the British Hotel which provided food, nursing, and comfort to British soldiers. Her fame in her day rivaled that of Florence Nightingale, but her story is not taught in schools and it damned well should be.
Fascinating story and one I had not heard before today. The problem with history is it was written and is being rewritten to suit an agenda. History should never be twisted to fit an agenda. It should not be edited so as not to offend anyone. History was and is made by flawed human beings, products of the morals and laws and character judgements of the times. You don’t get to make it, unmake it or remake it to suit whatever political or religious group screams the loudest or has the backing of the media or whatever other group that has elected itself to tell us how to think. History simply is. I wish those who write history would try doing what I do when I research something for one of my novels. I check as many sources as I can to make certain I get the FACTS right. And if my research tells me it didn’t happen that way or they didn’t say it that way then I am out of luck. Those who write the history books should try it.
I am reminded of a line from the musical 1776. They are drafting the Declaration of Independence and they keep having trouble with the wording because they don’t want to offend their brethren in England, they don’t want to give offense to the king, etc. John Addams finally says “It’s a revolution! We’re going to have to offend SOMEONE!”
History is usually made by those who hear the insults, the naysayers, and the pundits of doom and they just go ahead and do it anyway.
Try reading about Mary Seacole. She was a Jamaican born nurse of mixed race who when the British military refused to send her to the Crimea to care for the wounded funded her own trip and set up the British Hotel which provided food, nursing, and comfort to British soldiers. Her fame in her day rivaled that of Florence Nightingale, but her story is not taught in schools and it damned well should be.
Not all women explorers traveled as seconds to their husbands. Not even all women except Hester Stanhope. I highly recommend to you all Travels in West Africa, the memoir of Mary Kingsley. Wearing restrictively proper Victorian dress, she slogged her way through rivers and forests and then wrote matter-of-factly about it. Learn more about her at https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Kingsley.
Not all women explorers traveled as seconds to their husbands. Not even all women except Hester Stanhope. I highly recommend to you all Travels in West Africa, the memoir of Mary Kingsley. Wearing restrictively proper Victorian dress, she slogged her way through rivers and forests and then wrote matter-of-factly about it. Learn more about her at https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Kingsley.
Not all women explorers traveled as seconds to their husbands. Not even all women except Hester Stanhope. I highly recommend to you all Travels in West Africa, the memoir of Mary Kingsley. Wearing restrictively proper Victorian dress, she slogged her way through rivers and forests and then wrote matter-of-factly about it. Learn more about her at https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Kingsley.
Not all women explorers traveled as seconds to their husbands. Not even all women except Hester Stanhope. I highly recommend to you all Travels in West Africa, the memoir of Mary Kingsley. Wearing restrictively proper Victorian dress, she slogged her way through rivers and forests and then wrote matter-of-factly about it. Learn more about her at https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Kingsley.
Not all women explorers traveled as seconds to their husbands. Not even all women except Hester Stanhope. I highly recommend to you all Travels in West Africa, the memoir of Mary Kingsley. Wearing restrictively proper Victorian dress, she slogged her way through rivers and forests and then wrote matter-of-factly about it. Learn more about her at https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Kingsley.
There is a book which tells the stories of six intrepid 19th century British women who travelled in various dangerous or unknown parts of the world – safari in Africa, in Mongolia etc, and who kept diaries about their travels. They were considered eccentrics but they managed to have their adventures, in an age when women were considered frail and delicate and piano and table legs were hidden in draperies to avoid mentioning ‘legs’.
There is a book which tells the stories of six intrepid 19th century British women who travelled in various dangerous or unknown parts of the world – safari in Africa, in Mongolia etc, and who kept diaries about their travels. They were considered eccentrics but they managed to have their adventures, in an age when women were considered frail and delicate and piano and table legs were hidden in draperies to avoid mentioning ‘legs’.
There is a book which tells the stories of six intrepid 19th century British women who travelled in various dangerous or unknown parts of the world – safari in Africa, in Mongolia etc, and who kept diaries about their travels. They were considered eccentrics but they managed to have their adventures, in an age when women were considered frail and delicate and piano and table legs were hidden in draperies to avoid mentioning ‘legs’.
There is a book which tells the stories of six intrepid 19th century British women who travelled in various dangerous or unknown parts of the world – safari in Africa, in Mongolia etc, and who kept diaries about their travels. They were considered eccentrics but they managed to have their adventures, in an age when women were considered frail and delicate and piano and table legs were hidden in draperies to avoid mentioning ‘legs’.
There is a book which tells the stories of six intrepid 19th century British women who travelled in various dangerous or unknown parts of the world – safari in Africa, in Mongolia etc, and who kept diaries about their travels. They were considered eccentrics but they managed to have their adventures, in an age when women were considered frail and delicate and piano and table legs were hidden in draperies to avoid mentioning ‘legs’.
I love all these stories. I come from a long line of worker bees. You know the people that no one ever talked about that did grunt work for the people who DO get talked about LOL. I just love the strength and determination of those that never made the history books! I often wish someone in my family would have had the forethought to keep records. The stories that could be told!!! But when they were in the middle of it, it was just life as they knew it.
I love all these stories. I come from a long line of worker bees. You know the people that no one ever talked about that did grunt work for the people who DO get talked about LOL. I just love the strength and determination of those that never made the history books! I often wish someone in my family would have had the forethought to keep records. The stories that could be told!!! But when they were in the middle of it, it was just life as they knew it.
I love all these stories. I come from a long line of worker bees. You know the people that no one ever talked about that did grunt work for the people who DO get talked about LOL. I just love the strength and determination of those that never made the history books! I often wish someone in my family would have had the forethought to keep records. The stories that could be told!!! But when they were in the middle of it, it was just life as they knew it.
I love all these stories. I come from a long line of worker bees. You know the people that no one ever talked about that did grunt work for the people who DO get talked about LOL. I just love the strength and determination of those that never made the history books! I often wish someone in my family would have had the forethought to keep records. The stories that could be told!!! But when they were in the middle of it, it was just life as they knew it.
I love all these stories. I come from a long line of worker bees. You know the people that no one ever talked about that did grunt work for the people who DO get talked about LOL. I just love the strength and determination of those that never made the history books! I often wish someone in my family would have had the forethought to keep records. The stories that could be told!!! But when they were in the middle of it, it was just life as they knew it.
I remember a young adult story about Mary Patten who took over as captain of the sailing ship when her husband falls sick. See Women in Maritime History: https://www.nps.gov/safr/learn/historyculture/maritimewomenhistory.htm
I remember a young adult story about Mary Patten who took over as captain of the sailing ship when her husband falls sick. See Women in Maritime History: https://www.nps.gov/safr/learn/historyculture/maritimewomenhistory.htm
I remember a young adult story about Mary Patten who took over as captain of the sailing ship when her husband falls sick. See Women in Maritime History: https://www.nps.gov/safr/learn/historyculture/maritimewomenhistory.htm
I remember a young adult story about Mary Patten who took over as captain of the sailing ship when her husband falls sick. See Women in Maritime History: https://www.nps.gov/safr/learn/historyculture/maritimewomenhistory.htm
I remember a young adult story about Mary Patten who took over as captain of the sailing ship when her husband falls sick. See Women in Maritime History: https://www.nps.gov/safr/learn/historyculture/maritimewomenhistory.htm
A very thoughtful post, Louisa—thank you! I very much agree that history shouldn’t be written to any agenda. It must be shown, warts and all. Of course, it probably impossible to have one opus that tells all the countless stories that weave the incredible tapistry of our past. But we can keep trying to add the colorful threads hat show all the variety and contributions from those who made important contributions but haven’t gotten much recognition.
Thanks so much fir sharing Mary Seacole’s story—a wonderful one that deserves far more recognition!
A very thoughtful post, Louisa—thank you! I very much agree that history shouldn’t be written to any agenda. It must be shown, warts and all. Of course, it probably impossible to have one opus that tells all the countless stories that weave the incredible tapistry of our past. But we can keep trying to add the colorful threads hat show all the variety and contributions from those who made important contributions but haven’t gotten much recognition.
Thanks so much fir sharing Mary Seacole’s story—a wonderful one that deserves far more recognition!
A very thoughtful post, Louisa—thank you! I very much agree that history shouldn’t be written to any agenda. It must be shown, warts and all. Of course, it probably impossible to have one opus that tells all the countless stories that weave the incredible tapistry of our past. But we can keep trying to add the colorful threads hat show all the variety and contributions from those who made important contributions but haven’t gotten much recognition.
Thanks so much fir sharing Mary Seacole’s story—a wonderful one that deserves far more recognition!
A very thoughtful post, Louisa—thank you! I very much agree that history shouldn’t be written to any agenda. It must be shown, warts and all. Of course, it probably impossible to have one opus that tells all the countless stories that weave the incredible tapistry of our past. But we can keep trying to add the colorful threads hat show all the variety and contributions from those who made important contributions but haven’t gotten much recognition.
Thanks so much fir sharing Mary Seacole’s story—a wonderful one that deserves far more recognition!
A very thoughtful post, Louisa—thank you! I very much agree that history shouldn’t be written to any agenda. It must be shown, warts and all. Of course, it probably impossible to have one opus that tells all the countless stories that weave the incredible tapistry of our past. But we can keep trying to add the colorful threads hat show all the variety and contributions from those who made important contributions but haven’t gotten much recognition.
Thanks so much fir sharing Mary Seacole’s story—a wonderful one that deserves far more recognition!
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
So true, Stephanie. So many inspiring stories out there of people who considered themselves ordinary.
So true, Stephanie. So many inspiring stories out there of people who considered themselves ordinary.
So true, Stephanie. So many inspiring stories out there of people who considered themselves ordinary.
So true, Stephanie. So many inspiring stories out there of people who considered themselves ordinary.
So true, Stephanie. So many inspiring stories out there of people who considered themselves ordinary.
Another great recommendation! Thanks, Char!
Another great recommendation! Thanks, Char!
Another great recommendation! Thanks, Char!
Another great recommendation! Thanks, Char!
Another great recommendation! Thanks, Char!
I’d love to know the name of the book, Beth! I’ve read other accounts of adventurous women, and imagine there were far more than history would have us believe.
I’d love to know the name of the book, Beth! I’ve read other accounts of adventurous women, and imagine there were far more than history would have us believe.
I’d love to know the name of the book, Beth! I’ve read other accounts of adventurous women, and imagine there were far more than history would have us believe.
I’d love to know the name of the book, Beth! I’ve read other accounts of adventurous women, and imagine there were far more than history would have us believe.
I’d love to know the name of the book, Beth! I’ve read other accounts of adventurous women, and imagine there were far more than history would have us believe.
I have two books about women travellers: Wayward Women by Jane Robinson, who also wrote Unsuitable for Ladies, and Women Travellers by Mary Morton. My favourite is Elizabeth Craven. who left her husband and travelled widely in Europe, Turkey and Russia in the second half of the 18th century. She comes across as a rather overbearing woman but I admire her very much for her spirit of adventure!
I have two books about women travellers: Wayward Women by Jane Robinson, who also wrote Unsuitable for Ladies, and Women Travellers by Mary Morton. My favourite is Elizabeth Craven. who left her husband and travelled widely in Europe, Turkey and Russia in the second half of the 18th century. She comes across as a rather overbearing woman but I admire her very much for her spirit of adventure!
I have two books about women travellers: Wayward Women by Jane Robinson, who also wrote Unsuitable for Ladies, and Women Travellers by Mary Morton. My favourite is Elizabeth Craven. who left her husband and travelled widely in Europe, Turkey and Russia in the second half of the 18th century. She comes across as a rather overbearing woman but I admire her very much for her spirit of adventure!
I have two books about women travellers: Wayward Women by Jane Robinson, who also wrote Unsuitable for Ladies, and Women Travellers by Mary Morton. My favourite is Elizabeth Craven. who left her husband and travelled widely in Europe, Turkey and Russia in the second half of the 18th century. She comes across as a rather overbearing woman but I admire her very much for her spirit of adventure!
I have two books about women travellers: Wayward Women by Jane Robinson, who also wrote Unsuitable for Ladies, and Women Travellers by Mary Morton. My favourite is Elizabeth Craven. who left her husband and travelled widely in Europe, Turkey and Russia in the second half of the 18th century. She comes across as a rather overbearing woman but I admire her very much for her spirit of adventure!
Those books sounds wonderful—will look them up!
Alas, overbearing was probably a necessary trait in order for a woman to have in order to dare to defy convention, and be strong enough not to yield to the criticism and insults hurled her way. Even for us modern women, it’s often a difficult line to tread—sometimes we have to be more strident than we want in order to push back against prejudice that “ladies shouldn’t be interested in doing X or Y.” Sigh.
Those books sounds wonderful—will look them up!
Alas, overbearing was probably a necessary trait in order for a woman to have in order to dare to defy convention, and be strong enough not to yield to the criticism and insults hurled her way. Even for us modern women, it’s often a difficult line to tread—sometimes we have to be more strident than we want in order to push back against prejudice that “ladies shouldn’t be interested in doing X or Y.” Sigh.
Those books sounds wonderful—will look them up!
Alas, overbearing was probably a necessary trait in order for a woman to have in order to dare to defy convention, and be strong enough not to yield to the criticism and insults hurled her way. Even for us modern women, it’s often a difficult line to tread—sometimes we have to be more strident than we want in order to push back against prejudice that “ladies shouldn’t be interested in doing X or Y.” Sigh.
Those books sounds wonderful—will look them up!
Alas, overbearing was probably a necessary trait in order for a woman to have in order to dare to defy convention, and be strong enough not to yield to the criticism and insults hurled her way. Even for us modern women, it’s often a difficult line to tread—sometimes we have to be more strident than we want in order to push back against prejudice that “ladies shouldn’t be interested in doing X or Y.” Sigh.
Those books sounds wonderful—will look them up!
Alas, overbearing was probably a necessary trait in order for a woman to have in order to dare to defy convention, and be strong enough not to yield to the criticism and insults hurled her way. Even for us modern women, it’s often a difficult line to tread—sometimes we have to be more strident than we want in order to push back against prejudice that “ladies shouldn’t be interested in doing X or Y.” Sigh.
It might have been ‘Victorian Lady Travellers’ By ?? Middleton. It was a library book and has disappeared from the shelves as they made space for newer books.
It might have been ‘Victorian Lady Travellers’ By ?? Middleton. It was a library book and has disappeared from the shelves as they made space for newer books.
It might have been ‘Victorian Lady Travellers’ By ?? Middleton. It was a library book and has disappeared from the shelves as they made space for newer books.
It might have been ‘Victorian Lady Travellers’ By ?? Middleton. It was a library book and has disappeared from the shelves as they made space for newer books.
It might have been ‘Victorian Lady Travellers’ By ?? Middleton. It was a library book and has disappeared from the shelves as they made space for newer books.
Thanks, Beth! That should be enough to track it down.
Thanks, Beth! That should be enough to track it down.
Thanks, Beth! That should be enough to track it down.
Thanks, Beth! That should be enough to track it down.
Thanks, Beth! That should be enough to track it down.
I am reading this too late to be part of the discussion, but nevertheless, thank you for an interesting post, and so many stories about unsung heroines came out of it!
I am reading this too late to be part of the discussion, but nevertheless, thank you for an interesting post, and so many stories about unsung heroines came out of it!
I am reading this too late to be part of the discussion, but nevertheless, thank you for an interesting post, and so many stories about unsung heroines came out of it!
I am reading this too late to be part of the discussion, but nevertheless, thank you for an interesting post, and so many stories about unsung heroines came out of it!
I am reading this too late to be part of the discussion, but nevertheless, thank you for an interesting post, and so many stories about unsung heroines came out of it!