Celebrate Women’s History Month throughout March with programming that provides insights into the lives of women from all social stations in colonial and Revolutionary Virginia, revealing their struggles and their aspirations. Each program is inspired by one or more period sources, either written by women, about women, or of significant relevance to 18th-century women’s lives.
Women’s Lives: Passages
Before she met George Washington, Martha Custis was married to Virginia planter Daniel Parke Custis. They had four children together. Engage with Martha and a Williamsburg midwife as they discuss a hot topic on all 18th-century mother’s minds.
March 2, 9, 7, 14, and 16 at 2 p.m. at the Governor’s Palace, East Advance
A Gathering of Hair
Most of the enslaved had little time to themselves and for family, but despite that obstacle still found the time to develop a rich culture and strong relationships. Meet Elizabeth, a free black woman, and her enslaved friends, Agnes and Lydia, as they prepare for a gathering. Discover how these women manage love, work, beauty, friendship…and, of course, hair!
March 3 and 10 at 2 p.m. at the Governor’s Palace, East Advance
First of Women; First of Wives
The men wanted to have a say during Women’s History Month, too. In this special program, three luminaries reflect on their love for wives lost much too soon. Listen as widowers George Mason, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry talk about the women they loved, providing a rare glimpse into the private lives of these public men and the women they loved. Based on primary source documents, including letters to, from, and about their wives, this poignant program provides an opportunity to learn about women through the words of those who loved them.
March 4 and 25, 2 p.m. at the Kimball Theatre
Tag, Rag and Bobtail: Women Belonging to the Army
Every army needs its support staff. During the Revolutionary War, as in so many others, camp followers helped soldiers function on a daily basis. Join two women belonging to the army as they discuss loyalty to their country, their duty to their family, and what they are willing to sacrifice for everything they hold dear.
Saturday, March 4, 11 and 25 at 11:30 a.m. at Hennage Auditorium in the Art Museums
A Mother’s Wisdom
Listen in on a conversation between a mother and daughter as Martha Custis prepares for the arrival of her fourth child. Hear the discussion and advice of two experienced mothers as each begins a new chapter in her life.
March 5, 11, and 12 at 2 p.m. the Governor’s Palace, East Advance
Women’s Lives: Women Were (Almost) Everywhere!
Yes, there were women working in almost every occupation in the eighteenth century! Come meet interpreters who work our historic trades to hear about discovering women in unexpected places where – and why – women in the eighteenth century were working.
March 6 and 13 at 2 p.m. the Governor’s Palace, East Advance
A Perfect Adornment
Betsey Nicholas, a young gentry women engaged to be married, and her enslaved maidservant Sarah discover the devastating ways their relationship will change after the wedding.
March 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. at the Governor’s Palace, East Advance
And don’t forget to take a tour of the Capitol where the tours will be focusing on Women & the Law!