Women’s History Month

As a young girl, I liked reading biographies about different people in history. But, the selection of biographies about women at our local library was limited to a handful of obvious female heroes, such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Harriet Tubman, Betsy Ross, Amelia Earhart and Pocahontas. As I reflect on Women’s History Month, it is a great chance to celebrate famous and lesser-known women in history, as well as applaud the accomplishments of modern women.

We’ve compiled a list of Women’s History Month activities and events from Gozaic partners showcasing women and their work through tours, lectures, films, art exhibits and more.

Leesburg-Loudoun County, Virginia
Women in Aviation & Space, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, March 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“Women in Aviation & Space” highlights the many achievements of women in science, technology and aerospace. Visitors will learn about the accomplishments of Amelia Earhart, the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs), astronaut Sally Ride and women who are currently contributing to aviation, science, technology and space exploration. You can also participate in book signings, story time and fun and educational hands-on activities throughout the museum.

Tudor Place, Washington, D.C.
Women, Love and Property Tour & Tea, March 13, 10:30 a.m.
Celebrate Women’s History Month at Tudor Place. Six generations of women played an integral part in the preservation of the historic mansion and the objects and papers of their significant family. This tour explores the changing role of women from 1816 through modern times. The tour highlights artifacts and documents from the family matriarch, Martha Washington, as well as those of Martha Custis Peter, first owner of Tudor Place, and her daughter Britannia Peter Kennon. After the tour, enjoy a traditional Victorian tea complete with tea sandwiches, scones, delicious desserts and historic tea blends.

Sewall-Belmont House, Washington, D.C.
An Evening with Cokie Roberts, March 23, 6:30 p.m.
Join celebrated journalist Cokie Roberts as she shares personal thoughts and insights into her work, followed by a question-and-answer period, book signing and reception at Sewall-Belmont House. Roberts is the 2006 Alice Awards recipient, as well as the author of “We Are Our Mothers' Daughters” and “Founding Mothers.” This is just one of several Women’s History Month events at Sewall-Belmont House.

Wilmington and Brandywine Valley, Delaware
Women’s History, Women’s Lives, 24th Annual Film Series, through March 23
Greater Wilmington and the University of Delaware celebrate Women’s History Month with the 24th Annual Film Series, “Women’s History, Women’s Lives.” Through March 23, a different film will be shown every Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. and followed by a discussion led by a professor with expertise in the film’s subject matter. The screenings will be held at the University of Delaware’s Newark Campus.

Buffalo-Niagara, New York
A Variety of Events throughout the Month
Join this month-long celebration of women in history. Activities include gallery exhibits featuring women artists, theatrical productions, musical events, business seminars and workshops, films and networking opportunities. The Erie County Commission on the Status of Women and the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library lead a coalition of organizations in planning nearly 50 activities.

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
A Variety of Programs throughout March
Colonial Williamsburg celebrates the contributions of women of the 18th century to the history of our nation, with programs throughout the month of March. Scenes, tours, programs and special presentations explore the various roles that our foremothers filled in birthing a new nation.

Mary Billingsley is the director of media relations for Gozaic.com.

Photos top to bottom courtesy of: Tudor Place, Washington, D.C.; Sewall-Belmont House, Washington, D.C.