EDNA NELSON LOOKS BACK AT WOMEN'S HISTORY
By Audrey Smythe-Wei
Editor-in-Chief
Thursday, March 5, 2009 — Did you know that March is Women's History Month?
Our national celebration of Women's History actually began back in 1978. And, when it started, the occasion was honored for just one week. That changed in 1987, when Congress expanded the festivities to include the whole month—which is how March was declared Women's History Month.
Over at Town Hall, Edna Nelson, curator of the Historical Society, has a difficult Women's History decision on her hands.
"We want to erect a statue in Millsberry, to honor a significant figure in Women's History, but I can't decide who it should be," said Nelson.
"Mayor Wright and I narrowed it down to five important women, but we're hoping that the citizens of Millsberry will help us to make the final decision by coming out to vote for their favorite," she added.
This hope in mind, Edna has taken time out of her busy schedule to offer us a brief look at some of these significant Women's History figures, to help her decide who among them should be featured in town.
"One possible candidate is Amelia Earhart, a pioneer in aviation—and a keen role model for women everywhere," she explained. "In 1928, Earhart became the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean."
"Another very important figure in Women's History is Susan B. Anthony. She played a major role in the women's rights movement. Thanks in large part to her tireless efforts, the 19th Amendment—which gave women the right to vote—was finally ratified in 1920."
"Betsy Ross is another notable from Women's History," Nelson continued. "In June, 1776, Betsy Ross finished sewing what would become our nation's flag, using thirteen stars to represent the thirteen colonies."
"Also included in our list is Sacagawea, a Native American from the Shoshone tribe who acted as guide and interpreter for the Lewis and Clark expedition, as the explorers made their first trek across the uncharted, northwestern part of America, from 1804 to 1806."
"And last, but certainly not least, we have Frida Kahlo who was a talented Mexican painter, becoming a successful and respected artist while still overcoming great odds."
Well, that's sure a lot to think about! And Nelson is really racking her brain over the decision—so head on over to the polls to cast your vote for which distinguished woman should be honored with a statue in Millsberry.
Sat Mar 07, 2009 5:57 pm
