Spanning more than three centuries of Rhode Island’s history, the Women of the East Bay Exhibition recognizes and celebrates women who have made a difference in their communities. This exhibition is currently on display at Portsmouth Free Public Library. Four Portsmouth women are part of this exhibition - Anne Hutchinson, Julia Ward Howe, Sarah Eddy and Emeline Eldredge. Gloria Schmidt of the Portsmouth Historical Society will share what she has learned about the lives and contributions of each of these women. Portsmouth’s founding and tradition of strong women can be credited in part to Anne Hutchinson. Julia Ward Howe, known as the author of the poem that became the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” was a summer resident of Portsmouth for over forty years. A pioneer woman photographer and artist, Sarah Eddy worked for women’s suffrage, arts education and humane treatment of animals. Emeline Eldredge was a pillar of the community as superintendent of schools, library volunteer, and director of an arts center for Portsmouth’s youth.
This program is free and open to the public. Seating is limited so please sign up below or call the library at683-9457 to register.