Louisa May Alcott impersonator tells the stories of Alcott's books and life — **Louisa May Alcott** PORTRAYED BY PAT JORDAN

Louisa grew up at a time when America’s views on education, philosophy and human rights were radically changing. Her father was a pioneer in education whose friends included Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathanial Hawthorne and Margaret Fuller. After living in an ideal utopian community, moving numerous times, and struggling to make a career for herself, Louisa, the tomboy of the Alcott household, went off to become a nurse in the Civil War, profoundly changing her life. Deciding never to marry, the Alcott’s “Merry Spinster” continued to write and work tirelessly for social reform. Later, she single-handedly supported her family.
Learn of her struggles and successes, her eccentric father and hard-working mother, and about the sisters who inspired Louisa’s most famous work *Little Women*.
**Invite Louisa May Alcott to your event:**
• Educational Programs: Schools, Libraries, Museums, Historical Sites - Meet & Greet, Chat with her informally about her writing, her career as a nurse, her role as provider for her family, and her passion for women’s rights (all ages).
Pat Jordan: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator
"The patrons were absolutely bowled over by your detailed knowledge of Louisa May Alcott's life.... They thought you were extremely interesting and really enjoyed the humorous stories you included." -- J. H., Chinn Park Regional Library, Virginia

Susan B. Anthony impersonator brings the suffragist's legacy and personality to life! — **Susan B. Anthony** Portrayed by Marjorie Goldman

Susan B. Anthony has been portrayed as a dour Quaker school “marm,” but in reality, this important suffragist had a lively sense of humor. After teaching for fifteen years, Ms. Anthony began her 50+ years’ commitment to causes that included the abolition of slavery, women’s rights to their own property and earnings, and women’s right to vote, demonstrating a will unbroken by circumstance or obstacle. When the suffragist movement was threatened by an ideological split, it was Ms. Anthony who engineered the reunion of the two factions. Near the end of her life, Ms. Anthony hand-selected the women who were to “pick up the mantle,” urging her successors to be ever-vigilant, expanding and protecting the rights for which she had fought so long and valiantly. “We turn it over to a generation of women who are better-equipped. They have the unchallenged right to speak in public.” Ms. Anthony did not live to see women’s suffrage, but she knew not to give in, not to give up.
Marjorie Goldman shares Susan B. Anthony’s passion for women’s suffrage / women’s rights and for the cause of the abolition of slavery / racial equality. An experienced teacher like Susan, Goldman loves children and recognizes “teachable moments” through which her fierce dedication to human rights is immediately communicated and understood. Through her interpretation of Ms. Anthony, we are reminded that “The world is not truly free…until the rights and privileges of others are free.” Therefore, the task is ongoing and “failure is impossible.”
**Invite Susan B. Anthony to events for the League of Women Voters, women’s gatherings, humanitarian causes:**
• Educational Programs: Program with Press Conference for Schools, Libraries, Museums, and Historic Sites • Meet & Greet, Mix & Mingle, Propose Toasts, Pose for Photo Ops • Parades: Participant
Marjorie Goldman: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Meet Susan B. Anthony!

Susan B. Anthony shares some quarantine activity suggestions.

Clara Barton impersonator tells the story of "The Angel of the Battlefield" — **Clara Barton** *PORTRAYED BY PAT JORDAN*

Clara Barton was a strong-willed, intelligent individual who knew what she wanted and found ways to accomplish her goals. Clara found her calling early in life, nursing wounded birds and cats, as well as her friends’ injured pets. With the outbreak of the War between the States, she answered Abraham Lincoln’s call, signing on to support the Union efforts during the Civil War, frequently going to the front line. Articulate and determined, this *Angel of the Battlefield* frequently wrote newspaper pleas for blankets, money and/or food and stockpiled what she received in a large room she rented. Meeting a young man in military prison who was keeping records of the people who died, she secured permission to create a pamphlet in the *New York Times* with 11,000 names, identifying many missing soldiers and locating their families. As the founder and first president of the American Red Cross, this humanitarian assisted hurricane and tidal wave victims, always with the principle in mind to help people until they are able to help themselves.
Clara’s willingness to step forward in a time of great conflict and bring relief to thousands of injured soldiers, as well as victims of later natural disasters, is a lesson in clear-eyed decision-making and single-minded determination. Clara’s ability to overcome her extreme shyness in her youth in order to fight for the right with quick wit and courage is tremendously engaging. Complex and fascinating, this amazing woman will keep you wondering what will happen next!
More than a century after her death, school children continue to choose Clara Barton as the individual they talk about at ‘show and tell’. Her careers in education, nursing and disaster relief spanned nearly seventy years, and the American Red Cross continues to aid people facing disasters throughout the world.
**Invite Clara Barton to your event:** • Keynote Speaker: Women’s Issues, Civil War, and other topics on request •Educational Programs: Schools, Libraries, Museums, Historical Sites.
Pat Jordan: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Meet Clara Barton —The Civil War’s ”Angel of the Battlefield” and the founder of the American Red Cross.

Pat Jordan in performance as Clara Barton. Photo by Mike De Jesus of the Patterson Times.

**Alexander Graham Bell** *Portrayed by Bob GleasON*

Alexander Graham Bell is a portrait of a curious man with a great deal of energy, a big-hearted man who wanted to do good in this world. Born to a deaf mother, Alexander was taught elocution by his grandfather and his father who invented a phonetic alphabet called Bell’s Visible Speech. Alexander Graham Bell began teaching the deaf at age 14, believing they should be taught to speak. To earn money to open a school, Bell applied his talents to improve the telegraph, enabling more than one message to be sent at a time. And that was just the beginning of a life spent exploring, inventing and improving his world. At the 1876 U.S. Centennial Exposition at Fairmount Park, Bell exhibited his telephone for the first time: the “tipping point” for the progress of the 19th century. Bell also married a deaf wife.
Bob Gleason’s enthusiastic portrayal of Alexander Graham Bell teaches us to be curious, to question and explore, and to help others.
**Invite Alexander Graham Bell to your event:**
• Educational Programs: Presentation with Press Conference for schools, museums, libraries and historical sites • Entertaining Toasts, Relevant Quotes, Photo Ops for corporate, association and private social events
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Henry Box Brown impersonator tells the amazing historical story — **Henry Box Brown** *PORTRAYED BY KEITH HENLEY*

Henry Box Brown was a Slave on Virginia plantation. When his wife and children were sold to the owner of a South Carolina plantation owner he began to devise a way to escape to freedom. With the help of James C. A. Smith, a local shop keep and a member of the Philadelphia Abolitionist he mailed himself in a crate traveling from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia PA. The trip was a success, but was a great hardship as the journey lasted twenty seven hours. Once in Philadelphia he became a noted abolitionist and eventually a showman. Themes addressed in this program are: Overcoming the Odds, Determination vs Bondage and Faith
**Invite Henry Box Brown to your event:**
• Educational Programs: Presentation with Q & A for schools, museums, libraries and historical sites • Entertaining Toasts, Relevant Quotes, Photo Ops for corporate, association and private social events
Keith Henley Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Keith Henley is Henry “Box” Brown

Henry Box Brown historical reenactor captivates audiences with Brown's amazing story — Keith Henley as Henry “Box” Brown

**ICHABOD CRANE** by Neill Hartley

**Washington Irving and the Legend of Sleepy Hollow**
Neill Hartley is a convincing Washington Irving, the father of the American short story, bringing you into Irving’s world, introducing you to his work, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the most famous short story ever written. The literary lion narrates his tale and then enters his story, becoming his alter ego, Ichabod Crane. Neill Hartley is a mesmerizing Ichabod Crane.
**Invite Neill Hartley’s Ichabod Crane, Washington Irving and the Legend of Sleepy Hollow to schools, libraries, museums, historic sites, retirement communities:**
• Educational Programs: *Ichabod Crane, Washington Irving and the Legend of Sleepy Hollow,* 40-60 minutes plus Informational Section and Q & A for Schools, Libraries, Museums, Historical Sites
Neill Hartley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Dorothea Dix** *PORTRAYED BY* *PAT JORDAN*

Born to a sickly mother and an absent father, Dorothea Dix was called upon to mother her younger siblings. At age 12 she visited her grandmother in Boston a strong New England woman who provided Dorothea with an education, allowing her to become a teacher. Dorothea started a school at age 14.
Visiting the horrific poorhouses, Dorothea met children, the disabled, the unfortunate and the insane, all thrown together and mistreated. She became an activist on their behalf, lobbying state legislatures and the US Congress eventually starting the first mental asylums. Later she put her efforts into the Civil War and became the Superintendent of Union Army Nurses, Her reports were brutally honest, earning her the nickname Dragon Dix. Her courage and persistence went way beyond what was expected for while she had the resources to have lived a comfortable life, Dorothea instead became a champion for the mentally ill, prisoners, and wounded soldiers.
Invite Dorothea Dix to your event: • Keynote Speaker: Women’s Issues, Civil War, Education, and other topics on request • Educational Programs: Schools, Libraries, Museums, Historical Sites
Pat Jordan: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Katharine Drexel** *PORTRAYED BY RENE GOODWIN*

Although she was born into great wealth, her real treasure was her richness of spirit. Her life span of 96 years (1858 to 1955) covered a remarkable period in history which included: the entirety of the Civil War, the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, Red Cloud’s War and other major skirmishes with Native Americans out West, the implementation of the Jim Crow Laws and the Ku Klux Klan, the founding of the NAACP, and women’s suffrage.
Katharine Drexel was the second child of Francis Anthony Drexel and Hannah Langstroth and the niece of Anthony Joseph Drexel, founder of Drexel University. Bequeathed an inheritance of 7 million dollars by her father, Katherine’s life seemed destined to be that of a society lady of the Victorian Era. There were significant events that resulted in a departure from that course to the life she ultimately chose. Although philanthropy had always been a part of the Drexel life, it was after watching her stepmother suffer with cancer that Katharine realized that money did not give one an escape from pain or death. During a family trip out West in 1884, Katharine Drexel saw the plight and destitution of the Native Americans and decided to help. That is when she began her lifelong personal and financial commitment to help Native Americans and African Americans.
In a private audience with Pope Leo XIII in 1887 he suggested to Katharine that she become a missionary although she had already received proposals of marriage. And so her life’s course was forever altered.
Over the next 60 years, she touched the lives of millions by her commitment of her life and her material wealth. In 2000 she was canonized. The Vatican cited fourfold aspects of Drexel's legacy:
a love of the Eucharist and perspective on the unity of all peoples;
courage and initiative in addressing social inequality among minorities - one hundred years before such concern
aroused public interest in the United States;
her belief in quality education for all and efforts to achieve it;
selfless service, including the donation of her inheritance, for the victims of injustice.
Rene Goodwin: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Thomas Edison impersonator Robert Gleason holding a lightbulb — **Thomas Edison** *Portrayed by Bob Gleason*

American inventor, scientist, and businessman Thomas Edison developed many devices that greatly influenced life around the world, including the phonograph, the motion picture camera, and a long-lasting, practical electric light bulb. Edison was dubbed "The Wizard of Menlo Park." Less known is his brilliance as a business pioneer. By aligning multiple businesses to bring innovation to the marketplace, he laid the path for today's General Electric, the company that continues to ask the question: “Why predict the future when you can create it.” Edison’s inventions changed the world. His story is the American Dream.
He began his first entrepreneurial venture selling vegetables to supplement his income. His knack for invention initially included making improvements to the telegraph, but his invention of the phonograph in 1877 was the beginning of a technology-based empire. His business acumen eventually led him to found 14 companies, including General Electric, which is still in existence and is one of the largest publicly traded companies in the world. He modestly once said that his inventions were “one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.”
Bob Gleason completely engages the audience with his portrayal of Thomas Edison. In addition to learning about the inventor’s life, inspirations and inventions, a visit with Thomas Edison will make anyone believe that with a little imagination, ingenuity, and a lot of hard work, great things are possible.
Invite Bob Gleason's Thomas Edison to your event:
Keynote Speaker: Individual or panel participants speaking on topics such as Entrepreneurship, Inventions
Educational Programs: Programs for Schools, Libraries, Museums, Historical Sites
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Thomas Edison tells of creating his Menlo Park laboratory.

Thomas Edison tells of one of his least-known but most-used inventions: “hello!”

Pickersgill+and+star+1+%283%29.jpg — **Eliza Goodfellow** *PORTRAYED BY* *KIM HANLEY*

**Proprietor of America’s First Cooking School in Philadelphia**
“In Philadelphia during the first decades of the nineteenth century, a widow, Mrs. Elizabeth Goodfellow, ran a popular bakery and sweet shop. In addition to catering to Philadelphia’s wealthy families and a reputation of having the finest desserts and sweet dishes in the young country, her business stood out from every other establishment in another way: she ran a small school to learn the art of cooking, the first of its kind in America.” (1)
Mrs. Goodfellow felt very strongly that young women of her day, in search of higher intellectual pursuits, were beginning to stray too far from the domestic arts. She understood that knowledge in young women was a fine accomplishment, but it should not be gained at the expense of their ability to manage their domestic sphere. In particular, young ladies of the middling and upper sorts were most in need of her instruction. The establishment of her school for cookery was her answer to what she saw as the impending downfall of American womanhood. Somewhat paradoxically, she became an independent businesswoman, and the owner of her shop.
In this presentation we will learn how Mrs Goodfellow took on the challenge of balancing the increasingly curious spirit of young American ladies, by tempering them with a better understanding of their ancient and necessary domestic responsibilities. Visitors will also gain a few cooking and baking tips from the good lady Herself.
Kim Hanley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Matthew Henson - K Henley B&W.jpg — **Matthew Henson** *PORTRAYED BY KEITH HENLEY*

Receiving many honors posthumously, Matthew Henson was much overlooked throughout his entire career as an explorer. Though he traveled throughout the northern hemisphere and is acknowledged the first man to reach the North Pole, his accomplishments were overshadowed by his colleague, Commander Robert Perry.
Henson faced and overcame many of the limitations and struggles inherent for African Americans at the time. Orphaned at a young age, Henson worked hard to earn his way from being employed as a dishwasher, to a position as a Cabin boy, and eventually, he became a skilled navigator, and explorer.
Reflecting back he wrote two books about his experiences, “A Negro Explorer at the North Pole” and “Dark Companion”. The story of Matthew Henson’s fascinating life encourages one to believe in oneself despite the odds, and to rise above the limited expectations of others to reach any goal.
Keith Henley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator:

Sherlock Holmes impersonator tells stories of Arthur Conan Doyle's famous fictional sleuth — **SHERLOCK HOLMES** *by Neill Hartley*

**Sherlock Holmes and the Speckled Band**
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s master detective continues to appeal to audiences around the world, especially as portrayed by Neill Hartley . The Adventure of the Speckled Band was one of 56 short Sherlock Holmes stories and was the author’s favorite tale because of its intriguing characters, especially the marvelous villain. About the same height and body type as Doyle’s detective, tall and elegant in his dark tux, yet physically imposing and strong, Neill Hartley brings what he terms, “full arrogance” to the role. Faithful to the short story and bringing authenticity through his skillful use of British and Scottish dialects, Neill Hartley’s Sherlock Holmes attracts avid audience members, including Sherlockian societies … again and again.
Invite Neill Hartley in Sherlock Holmes and the Speckled Band to schools, libraries, museums, historic sites, retirement communities • Educational Programs: Sherlock Holmes and the Speckled Band, 40-60 minutes. Informational Section plus Q & A for Schools, Libraries, Museums, and Historical Sites.
Neill Hartley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Francis Scott Key historical impersonator tells the story of the National Anthem — **Francis Scott Key** *PORTRAYED BY* *DOUG THOMAS*

Maryland born Lawyer and author Francis Scott Key was engaged in negotiations regarding the release of American soldiers aboard the HMS Tonnant during the Battle of Baltimore. After dinner aboard the ship. Key was refused permission to leave in order to return to his own ship because it was believed that he had attained specific knowledge about the British fleet's position and strength. Thus being stranded, he was unable to do anything but watch, as the British began their assault on Fort McHenry in September of 1814. While returning to Baltimore, the images of the battle still fresh in his mind, he penned the poem "Defense of Fort McHenry" which later became adopted as our National Anthem in 1916.
Doug Thomas: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Robert Edward Lee** *PORTRAYED BY* *Robert Gleason*

Born to a prominent Virginia family and the son of Revolutionary War officer Lighthorse Harry Lee, Robert Edward Lee was educated at West Point and was trained as an engineer. He married the great-granddaughter of Martha Washington, Mary Anna Randolph Custis, whom he had known as a child. Lee distinguished himself in the Mexican-American war, but spent much time on leave, straightening out the affairs of his father-in-law’s estate. A staunch Virginian, Lee came to view slavery as immoral. When Virginia seceded from the Union, he was offered, but declined, the Union command. As adviser to Confederacy President Jefferson Davis, Lee proved to be an excellent strategist, serving Virginia and the Confederacy well.
We are very fortunate in this country that the two gentlemen who sat down in Wilbur McLain’s parlor on April 9, 1865 were Robert E. Lee, General-in-Chief of Confederate forces and Ulysses S. Grant, Commander of the Union Army of the Potomac. Had Lee not been involved, the Civil War might not have ended as quickly or as peacefully. In the aftermath of the conflict that tore the nation apart, his leadership inspired for Southerners to reclaim their rights as citizens of our Nation during the Reconstruction Period after the Civil War
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Lewis and Clark impersonators Steve Edenbo and Doug Thomas — **Lewis & Clark - The corps of Discovery**
Merriwether Lewis portrayed by Doug Thomas (pictured right), William Clark portrayed by Steve Edenbo (Pictured left)

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark regale audiences with stories of calm bravery in the face of danger, determination in the face of overwhelming odds, and good, old-fashioned adventure from the adventures of the Corps of Discovery. The interplay between the distinct personalities of the Captains made them a leadership team unsurpassed in American history. Those same differences in personality are now the ingredients for an entertaining stage performance that mixes humor with facts that allows audiences of all ages to truly enjoy an educational experience. When performing for audiences that include children, the Captains call audience members on stage to take part in the fun. Every presentation ends with a question & answer session, allowing the audience to lead the conversation in the direction of their own choosing.
Merriwether Lewis - Doug Thomas: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator
Willism Clark - Steven Edenbo: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Abraham Lincoln impersonator Bob Gleason tells stories and answers questions in-character — **Abraham Lincoln** *PORTRAYED BY* *BOB GLEASON*

Bob Gleason’s Abraham Lincoln conveys the self-taught, determined, highly individualistic man who rose from poverty. Lincoln’s commitment to the preservation of the Union matched his compassion for those who fought to save it. No stranger to hard work or to overcoming almost impossible obstacles, Lincoln enables audiences to experience the depth of his heart as well as his quick mind and unflappable spirit.
Bob Gleason feels a strong personal connection to Lincoln because one of his relatives met the Great Man several times and another relation was babysat by a woman whose hand had been shaken by the President. Mr. Gleason’s library of over 200 books on Lincoln reflects his commitment to doing justice to his portrayal. Bob’s voice and his laugh add authenticity to his Lincoln performance. And the down-to-earth humor the two men share (“He’s not totally dishonest, he probably wouldn’t steal a red-hot stove”) creates a believable, approachable Lincoln.
• Keynote Speaker: Leadership, Teambuilding, Negotiation • Educational Programs: Program with a Press Conference for Schools, Libraries, Museums, Historical Sites • Parties: Meet & Greet, Mix & Mingle, Propose Toasts, Pose for Photo Ops
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

During a recent Zoom meeting, Abraham Lincoln (Bob Gleason) introduces himself

Abraham Lincoln (Bob Gleason) recites a selection of his second inaugural address.

Abraham Lincoln (Bob Gleason) offers some advice, during a Zoom meeting, on how to make it through a national crisis.

**Mary Todd Lincoln** *PORTRAYED BY* *PAT JORDAN*

Pat Jordan’s sensitive interpretation of Mary Todd Lincoln invites new understanding of this complicated and frequently-misunderstood woman. Pat’ Mrs. Lincoln is an intelligent, quick-witted woman in an almost impossible situation. Having married the man of her dreams, a man she knew was destined to become President, Mary Todd Lincoln was deemed a spy by the North and a traitor by the South. With relatives on both sides of the conflict, having lost a dear son, and being married to a man frequently depressed by death and destruction, Mary was under great emotional stress yet she never lost sight of her responsibility as the first lady. With her enduring love and support of her husband, she battled to create a White House that reflected her the President’s stature while she endeavored to nurture her family during the devastating time of a Great Civil War.
Educational Programs: Programs for Schools, Libraries, Museums, Historical Sites Educational Program: Schools, Libraries, Museums and Historic Sites
Pat Jordan: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

John Marshall cropped with vignette.jpeg — **John Marshall** *Portrayed by* *Doug Thomas*

John James Marshall was an American politician who served as the fourth Chief Justice of the United States from 1801 to 1835. Marshall remains the longest-serving chief justice in Supreme Court history, and he is widely regarded as one of the most influential justices to ever sit on the Supreme Court.
Doug Thomas’ natural intelligence and quick wit provide the perfect combination to bring John Marshall to the 21st century audience.
A debate between John Marshall and Thomas Jefferson highlights the essential differences between the Founders: The sovereign rights of the States, the power of the Executive, and the independent authority of the Judiciary.
Marshall v. Jefferson is popular for High School age audiences, General Audiences, and Continuing Legal Education (CLE) for Lawyers and Judges.
Doug Thomas: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Chief Justice John Marshall (Doug Thomas) explains how President Jefferson broke the law during a Pennsylvania Bar Institute Continuing Legal Education seminar

Chief Justice John Marshall (Doug Thomas) tells of some of his life experiences that formed his political and Constitutional outlook, during a Pennsylvania Bar Institute Continuing Legal Education seminar

**Samuel Morse** *Portrayed by* *Bob Gleason*

Bob Gleason’s Samuel Morse is a lesson in persistence and ingenuity. Beginning as an artist interested in epic art that captured mythological subjects, Morse found that Americans were not willing to buy these large paintings that were expensive and weren’t portraits of themselves. Returning by boat from Europe, Morse heard discussions about messages being sent long distances over wire. Intrigued by the idea, Morse abandoned his successful international career as an artist to explore this new technology. He spent all of his time and money inventing the telegraph and protecting his patents. While developing the telegraph would ironically distance him from his family, the world have him to thank for bringing civilization closer together.
Invite Samuel Morse to your event: • Educational Programs: Program with Press Conference for schools, museums, libraries and historical sites • Parties: Mix & Mingle, Entertaining Toasts, Relevant Quotes, Photo Ops for corporate, association and private social events
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Lucretia Mott** *PORTRAYED BY* *KIM HANLEY*

**Quaker Minister, Abolitionist, Suffragist, and Anti-War Activist. Massachusetts**
In an age when most women were not expected to think about issues of the day, Lucretia Mott not only contemplated them, but also spoke out on them. A follower of Elias Hicks, she served as a Public Friend who emphasized the divinity within every individual.
Mott supported the Anti-Slavery movement and advocated the use of Free Produce. She was elected as an American Representative to the 1840 General (or World’s) Anti-Slavery Convention. When women were excluded from participating, were required to sit in a segregated area, Mott began to realize that she must also muster her efforts towards women’s equality. Mott joined Elizabeth Cady Stanton calling together the first women’s rights convention in Seneca Falls, NY.
The words and lessons of Lucretia Mott continue to open minds and hearts to a simple truth: If we embrace the inner light within ourselves, we fan the flame in others, and in time mankind will come to the full understanding that all people are created divine and equal.
Kim Hanley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Annie Oakley** *PORTRAYED BY*
*Kim Hanley*

Annie Oakley, born Phoebe Ann Mosey, was probably the most famous woman of her day. With photographs and posters everywhere, she and professional partner Buffalo Bill Cody may have been the first international superstars. The diminutive sharpshooter and exhibition shooter competed in a sport and in a world dominated by men.
Growing up poor she overcame a very difficult childhood, she learned to shoot from practical necessity, hunting to feed her parents and siblings. Achieving fame as a Lady Sharpshooter, she also fought for safe working conditions, fair and equal pay for a days work regardless of gender or heritage, and for a first-rate show that presented good solid family entertainment. International fame and success came with a price. Later in life she had to fight to maintain the honor of her name. She steadfastly supported the country in times of war, and put many young girls through school at her own expense. Believing that women were just as capable as men, she firmly insisted that they should strive to achieve any goal or occupation that interested them. Her motto was to “Aim for a high mark…for practice will make you perfect.” Her hope was that all women would reach the “Bulls-eye of Success.”
Ms. Hanley’s Annie Oakley is a persevering dynamo whose spirit is contagious.
Kim Hanley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Mary Pickersgill** *PORTRAYED BY*
*Kim Hanley*

In the summer of 1813, Baltimore seamstress and widow, Mary Young Pickersgill was commissioned to make two flags for Major George Armistead, the Commandant of Fort McHenry. One was a smaller foul-weather flag measuring 17′ x 25′ and the other, a very large 42′ x 30′ fair-weather banner. Daybreak on September 14, 1814, the morning after the British bombardment of Fort McHenry, Francis Scott Key saw this larger flag in the “dawn’s early light”, inspiring him to write the words that would become the United States’ National Anthem. That very same Flag is still in existence, and remains one of our Nation’s most important and beloved artifacts, viewed my millions of visitors every year at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History.
In her later years Mary Young Pickersgill became a great supporter of humanitarian causes in Baltimore, particularly those dealing with indigent widows. Today, the Pickersgill Retirement community which bears her name, continues to help senior citizens in need
Meet Mary Young Pickersgill, the plucky widow who literally sewed the fabric of our Nation’s history.
“We, sir, are ready at Fort McHenry to defend Baltimore against invading by the enemy . . . except that we have no suitable ensign to display over the Star Fort, and it is my desire to have a flag so large that the British will have no difficulty in seeing it from a distance.” (Major George Armistead, Commandant of Fort McHenry, July 1813)
Mary Young Pickersgill Program Categories:
Meet & Greets, Chautauquas, Libraries, & other adult & family venues,
Grade School & Middle School Aged Audiences
Kim Hanley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Edgar Allan Poe** *PORTRAYED BY* *BOB GLEASON*

Exposing the inner machinations of the human mind and heart, Bob Gleason’s Edgar Allan Poe provides vivid images, terrifying tales, and heart-thumping excitement. But Gleason’s portrayal doesn’t stop there. He reveals the literary editor and critic determined to mine his mind and profit from his published works. We learn that Poe is considered the inventor of the detective story, providing the reason for the award being dubbed the Edgar. And we discover the all-too-human Poe, the passionate poet, the intense husband, the haunted soul.
Not just for Halloween any more! A literary talent for all seasons.
“Mr Gleason was just wonderful and our patrons really enjoyed his portrayal of Edgar Allan Poe!” – C.S. Township Library of Lower Southampton, Feasterville, PA
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Richard sears** *Portrayed by*
*Bob Gleason*

"Bob was terrific! It is such a treasure to have him. He creatively put together three characters to portray the history of Sears and it was great. He research is accurate and he is a true professional . Please be sure to let him know how much we appreciated all his good work and hope to work with again on this and other programs." P.W. Smithsonian Associates, 6/2011
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

E Cady Stanton -.jpg — **Elizabeth Cady Stanton** *PORTRAYED BY* *KIM HANLEY*

Author, lecturer, and chief philosopher of the women’s rights and suffrage movements.
Change does not necessarily occur easily within civilization and in the elusive effort to achieve equity for all, there are always those who would resist amending their personal status quo. Elizabeth Cady Stanton shows us that reforms which would improve human condition overall must be nurtured and fought for. A visit with Mrs. Cady Stanton is a visit with an inspirational dynamo! She will encourage her guests to arm themselves with information, law, precedent, and energy in order to carry on the fight for Equality.
From an early age, Elizabeth Cady realized that men held unfair advantages in just about every facet of life: Education, occupation, legislation, property ownership, even in clothing style - and she was determined that she would embrace and speak out for reform. In 1848 Stanton was one of the chief organizers of the first United States Woman’s Rights convention at Seneca Falls, New York. Her “Declaration of Sentiments” stated the understanding that “…all men and women are created equal…” and the Convention adopt a resolution for the necessity of Woman Suffrage – The Vote! Soon after the 1848 Convention, Susan B. Anthony would join forces with Stanton and the two would spend the rest of the century tirelessly speaking, writing, petitioning, and fighting for women’s rights in the United States.
“To throw obstacles in the way of a complete education is like putting out the eyes; to deny the rights of property is like cutting off the hands. To refuse political equality is to rob the ostracized of all self-respect, of credit in the market place, of recompense in the world of work, of a voice in choosing those who make and administer the law, a choice in the jury before whom they are tried, and in the judge who decides their punishment.” ECS — “Solitude of Self”
Elizabeth Cady Stanton Program Categories:
Meet & Greets, Chautauquas, Libraries, & other adult & family venues,
Grade School & Middle School Aged Audiences
Kim Hanley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Elizabeth Cady Stanton tells of childhood experiences that inspired her to become a women's rights leader. (Excerpt from a Zoom panel discussion event.)

Meet Elizabeth Cady Stanton!

**Harriet Beecher Stowe** *PORTRAYED BY* *KIM HANLEY*

In 1852 Harriet Beecher Stowe published her novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin, or Life Among the Lowly. This empathetic depiction of life for African Americans under slavery reached millions in the United States and the United Kingdom. The emotionally charged stories of Uncle Tom, Eliza, and Little Eva helped move the conscience of the country to the great and imperative cause of Abolitionism. It energized anti-slavery forces in the American North, while provoking widespread anger in the pro-slavery South. It is alleged that when she met Abraham Lincoln, he told her “So you are the little woman that wrote the book that started this great war.”
Constrained by 19th century societal conventions Harriet could not become a minister like her father, brothers and husband, so she chose instead to use the outlets available to a lady, among those were teaching and writing. During the early years of her marriage, Harriet drew income as an educator and from writing from magazine articles. Later, after witnessing the horrors of Slavery and the work of Abolitionists, she began Uncle Tom’s Cabin as a story to be published in serial form. The stories catapulted her to international fame, and in the years following, Harriet went on to publish over 20 novels as well as travel memoirs, home-life guides, letters and essays, becoming one of the most widely published authors in American History.
Kim Hanley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**william still** *PORTRAYED BY KEITH HENLEY*

(October 7, 1821 - July 14, 1902) was an African-American abolitionist. He was a conductor on the Underground Railroad, businessman, writer, historian and civil rights activist. He directly aided fugitive slaves and also kept records of the people served in order to help families
After the Civil War, Still continued as a prominent businessman in Philadelphia, a coal merchant, and philanthropist. He used his meticulous records to write an account of the underground system and the experiences of many refugee slaves, entitled “The Underground Railroad Records” (1872)
**Invite William Still to your event:**
• Educational Programs: Presentation with Q & A for schools, museums, libraries and historical sites • Entertaining Toasts, Relevant Quotes, Photo Ops for corporate, association and private social events
Keith Henley Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Sojourner Truth** *Portrayed by*
*Daisy Century*

Born Isabella Baumfree, the slave from a small town north of New York City changed hands several times, sold by one brutal owner to another just as harsh. In 1826, having been promised freedom, but then cruelly denied emancipation, she walked away and emancipated herself. She had an epiphany, became a devout Christian, and renamed herself Sojourner Truth, after which she began her travels as a preacher. In 1850, Sojourner began speaking on women’s suffrage, believing the causes of abolition and women’s rights to be intertwined and equally important. Ms. Truth’s most quoted speech, “Ain’t I a Woman?” was delivered at the Ohio Women’s Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio. Truth also helped recruit black troops during the Civil War for the Union Army, and she worked as a Union nurse.
Dr. Century gives a commanding performance of Ms. Truth, bringing to life a woman who overcame incredible obstacles to take her rightful place among the leading figures of her day, including Susan B. Anthony, Abraham Lincoln, and Ulysses S. Grant. Dr. Century’s performance encourages her audiences to consider the equal importance of the twin goals of racial and gender parity.
“Your passion and dedication brought Sojourner to life. The audience enjoyed your performance very much and they made sure to tell us what a wonderful program it was.”N.D., Ocean County Library, Point Pleasant Branch
“Yours was a brilliant depiction of the life of those living in slavery. You made it so real to us. I want to pass along to you…some of the words of praise…extraordinary, flawless, a born actress, so very lovely, a riveting performance.” -- C.B., Heath Village Women’s Association
Daisy Century: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Dr. Daisy Century as Sojourner Truth tells the story of delivering the famous "Ain't I a Woman?" speech at the 1851 Women’s Rights Convention held in Akron, Ohio. This excerpt was selected from a recent Zoom panel discussion.

Dr. Daisy Century performing part of Sojourner Truth’s most quoted speech, "Ain't I a Woman?”

Dr. Daisy Century performs, “The Life & Times of Sojourner Truth”

Century Tubman.jpg — **Harriet Tubman** *PORTRAYED BY*
*Daisy Century*

Harriet Tubman couldn’t read or write, suffered from epilepsy after being hit in the head with a two-pound weight intended to deter a runaway slave, was repeatedly threatened, beaten and starved, and emerged from these trials an ardent abolitionist, humanitarian and Union spy during the Civil War. Not content to find freedom herself, Ms. Tubman rescued others from their bondage through the Underground Railroad. After the Civil War, she was active in the struggle for women’s suffrage.
Harriet Tubman shows us a woman unstopped by almost insurmountable obstacles. Audience members learn how to “walk soft” in the woods as they journey to freedom and sing “Go down, Moses,” a doubly potent message since one of Ms. Tubman’s nicknames was “Moses.” Dr. Daisy Century, Ed.D, captures the intensity of Tubman’s faith and the depth of her passion for freedom – for herself and for all who were oppressed. She takes her audience on Tubman’s remarkable journey through the underground railroad - from Slavery to Freedom! Daisy shares Harriet’s commitment and makes accessible the enormity of Harriet Tubman’s contribution.
Daisy Century: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

Dr. Daisy Century, Ed.D, portrays Harriet Tubman

Dr. Daisy Century keeps her audiences spellbound as she tells the story of Harriet Tubman

**Mark Twain** *PORTRAYED BY*
*Bob Gleason*

Author and humorist Samuel Langhorne Clemens, or as he is better known, Mark Twain used his home town of Hannibal, Missouri as the backdrop for his two most notable works: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (which has often been referred to as the Great American Novel). He tried a number of other career options before discovering his true vocation. He was an apprentice printer, a typesetter, a riverboat pilot, a gold miner, inventor, and finally a journalist. He was a Jack of all trades, when it came to writing he certainly excelled. He became well known for his works, was acclaimed by his peers, and counted presidents and industrialist and other notables amongst his friends.
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**madame CJ Walker** *Portrayed by*
*Daisy Century*

Born with the name Sarah Breedlove, Madame C.J. Walker was an entrepreneur, and an early civil rights advocate who sought equality for African Americans. As America’s first female self-made millionaire, she was a philanthropist who was an enthusiastic financial supporter of Black Colleges and Universities.
Walker amassed her fortune through dedication, hard work, and innovation. She began with a small “Special Correspondence Course” business, founded on her System of Beauty Culture. This self described “hair-growing” business, was borne out her desire to remedy her own hair loss. On September 19th, 1911 the Madame C.J. Walker Manufacturing Company of Indiana, Inc. wherein Madame Walker was the President and sole shareholder, was incorporated. As she focused on growing hair, her business also grew rapidly.
Dedicated not only to her work but to her community as well, Walker began teaching other African American women how they too could likewise succeed in business. She was sought after to lecture on social, political, and economic topics. Walker was a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and was instrumental in their efforts to make lynching a federal crime. Walker is recognized by the National Association Of Colored Women (NACW) for making the largest contribution to save the home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass. She donated throughout her career to the NAACP, the YMCA, and to black schools, organizations, individuals, orphanages, as well as retirement homes.
Daisy Century: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**John Wanamaker** *Portrayed by*
*Bob Gleason*

"Meet me at the Eagle,” was a frequent suggestion for Philadelphians over the years. The statue was impressive and so was the store named for its founder, John Wanamaker. Civic-minded and charitable, Wanamaker fostered a progressive relationship with his employees. He made it possible for them to go to school and built a vacation amusement place for employees to use on the weekends. Bob Gleason’s Wanamaker gives us the story of a businessman and philanthropist who provided variety and fun for his customers and employees and a worthy role model for modern business owners and leaders.
Bob Gleason: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator

**Walt Whitman** *Portrayed by*
*David Scott Taylor*

Walt Whitman changed the voice of poetry. He sought to create “a new gospel of beauty”: an American voice. He escaped the Classic Structures demanded of verse, and gave us the free form voice that has become standard today.
Within Walt Whitman’s story, one may find a parallel to the story of America. He was born and raised on Long Island, NY, when Brooklyn was but a village. As Whitman grew, so too did Brooklyn, becoming one of the largest cities in America during his lifetime. Throughout America many areas experienced a rapid period of growth and transformation from rural to urban and industrial. The nation was undergoing a process of re-definition and understanding and Whitman was a man of the times. He was a newspaper man and poet fully engaged in learning about and defining himself.
His work influenced the beat movement and its leaders such as Jack Kerouac and Alan Ginsberg, anti-war poets and even Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Whitman served as a volunteer in military hospitals during the civil war and mourned with the nation at the assassination of President Lincoln with the well-known “Captain, oh my Captain.”
The last chapter of his life took place in the hard working town of Camden, NJ and his refuge in nature at the Stafford Farm and Timber Creek as the “Good Grey Poet”.
David Scott Taylor: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator