Author Lee Wilson Will Brings 19th Century, Women’s Ed Pioneer, Catharine Beecher to Life!

Sunday, September. 14 the Second Sunday Speaker Series continues.

R. Lee Wilson’s recent book, 
Women’s Crusader

Billed as “The incredible untold story of how a lighthearted romantic became a pioneer advocate for women’s education,” R. Lee Wilson’s recent book, Women’s Crusader,  tells the story of Catharine Beecher and of her big impact on 19th century America. 

Sister of Harriet Beecher Stowe, whose book, `Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ was a bestseller, blamed by some for sparking the Civil War, Catharine at first seemed more destined for a life of domesticity than of public leadership. 

But a chance interaction led her into a romance with Franklin-born Alexander Metcalf Fisher, a brilliant Yale professor. However, after they became engaged, Fisher died in a tragic shipwreck that changed the focus of Catharine’s life. After living for a time in Franklin, with Fisher’s family, she emerged with a clear view of her life’s work, fighting misogyny and creating opportunities for women to get the education they needed and deserved. 

The story even includes a role for Franklin famous education pioneer Horace Mann! 

The program starts at 1:15.  

The museum is open from 1-4 and admission is free. OPEN TO THE MEDIA

The Franklin Historical Museum is located at 80 West Central Street, Franklin. The museum is open Saturday mornings from 10AM-1PM (except as noted above) and Sunday afternoons from 1:00PM-4:00PM. 

When visiting the museum, please consider donating a non-perishable item for the Franklin Food Pantry.    Questions? Contact Alan Earls at 508 560 3786.