Women of the American Renaissance: Louisa May Alcott

This project shines a light on the little-known stories of inspiring women of Concord, MA during the American Renaissance of the 1800's.  It was a time when the unique voices of America developed and, with it, our national culture, ethics, literature, and philosophy.  Transcendentalism, the rights of women, the anti-slavery movement, the desire for education and enlightenment for all citizens pulsed strongest in this amazing New England town.   We know the men who were at the forefront of this exciting time, but less familiar, and of equal importance, were the remarkable women who gave voice to this time.
 

• March 4 - Louisa May Alcott - Author of Little Women and a family dedicated to abolition, social reform, education for all, and a deep love for the humanities and the arts.
   
• April 1 -  Margaret Fuller- A powerful influence on the rights of women
  movement, its shining voice, and a great influence on both Emerson and Hawthorne as well as
  the women of Concord on her many visits to the town. Her “Conversations” are the inspiration
  for the follow-up half hour of every lecture.
   
• October 7 - Peabody Sisters, Elizabeth, Mary, and Sophia - Educators, artists, members of the community of intellectuals who embraced Transcendentalism and abolition, Elizabeth also was bookstore owner and publisher who
  created a gathering place for men and women to share ideas.
   
• November 4 - Mary Moody Emerson and Sarah Alden Bradford Ripley. Each had a powerful influence on the Transcendental philosophy of Ralph Waldo Emerson and the education and inspiration for a generation of men and women.