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Worcester Women’s History Project at the Museum of WorcesterCelebrating 175 Years Since the First National Women’s Rights Convention
On October 23-24,1850, over 1,000 people—including Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, and Lucy Stone—gathered in Brinley Hall in Worcester for the first National Women’s Rights Convention. It was a groundbreaking moment that sparked a global movement.
Exactly 175 years later, the Worcester Women’s History Project (WWHP) at the Museum of Worcester (MOW) is bringing that history to life with a modern two-day convention exploring women’s rights then and now—reproductive freedom, pay equity, inclusion, constitutional protections, and more. Featuring national speakers, exhibits, performances, and a youth delegation.
Day One: Setting the Stage
Re-Creation of the 1850 Convention – Mechanics Hall | October 22, 6:00-8:30PM
Angels and Infidels– A powerful play by Louisa Burns-Bisogno with period music Experience this dramatization of the 1850 Convention which captures the excitement of the convention, highlighting the famous players in the abolition and women’s rights movements.
The Providence Brigade Band provides authentic music of the era before and during the show.
Day Two: 1850 to Beyond Suffrage
Today’s National Women’s Rights Convention – Mechanics Hall | October 23, 8:00AM-4:00PM
Women and Politics, Past and Present – 175 Years of Activism
From Petticoats to Power Suits – an overview of Victorian Dress Reform with an Historical Fashion Show – With costume experts from Clark University and the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Dessert With the Dead Ladies – Q&A with historical icons like Abby Kelley Foster and Frances Perkins
The Current State of Inclusion
Women’s Reproductive Health through the ages
Final Call to Action
6:00PM
The Harvey Ball– Join us as we honor retired Senator Harriette L. Chandler, the first woman President of the Massachusetts Senate, who tirelessly advocated for women’s rights over her storied career. Separate admission fee.
Tickets
Early Bird pricing until 9/1 – save 25%!
$125 + fees
EARLY BIRD Ticket Includes:
Admission to the Angels & Infidels performance on Wednesday, October 22
ADMISSION TO ANGELS AND INFIDELS NOT INCLUDED STARTING 9/1
Admission to the Re-Creation of the 1850 Convention at Mechanics Hall on Thursday, October 23
*Fees apply to all ticket sales – phone, online, and in person. Ticketing fees not only cover processing costs but also help support the maintenance and preservation of Mechanics Hall as a community treasure.*
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
321 Main St, Worcester, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01608
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