SSCC Celebrates Women's History Month and Ohio Bicentennial with Special Performance

In celebration of Women's History Month, Southern State Community College is featuring notable women from the past for a special performance of Women in History on Thursday, Mar. 6, at 7:00 p.m. The dramatic re-creation will take place in the Edward K. Daniels Auditorium at the Central Campus of Southern State in Hillsboro.

The hour- long program will involve three characters, portrayed by professional historical educators, interacting during a social tea so popular in the early years of our country. They will discuss news of the day, share opinions on women's issues and discuss a host of other topics. They will also present relevant information about themselves and the era in which they lived during their husbands' presidencies.

First Ladies to be featured will be Julia Boggs Dent Grant, Lucretia Rudolph Garfield and Florence Kling Harding. Each will be dressed in period costume designed to authenticate the fascinating stories they relate regarding their contributions during the growth and development of our nation. And each is connected to Ohio in some way. 

Julia Boggs Dent Grant (1826-1902) was born in St. Louis, Missouri and met Ulysses S. Grant when he visited Julia's brother during a break from West Point. After they married and had four children, she was a devoted wife and mother living in Ohio. During her husband's presidency, she revamped and redecorated the neglected White House making it into an elegant and exquisite symbol of America where visitors were welcomed with grace and compassion.

Lucretia "Crete" Rudolph Garfield (1832-1918) was born in Garrettsville, Ohio and was the wife of James Abram Garfield, the 20th President. She met James at the Geauga Baptist Seminary and after they married they had seven children. Upon finishing her studies, she taught at various schools in northern Ohio communities eventually staying home to raise her children and fulfill her duties as the First Lady of the land.

Florence Kling Harding (1860-1924) was born in Marion, Ohio and gave birth to her only child during her first marriage before she met Warren G. Harding in the late 1880?s. Unlike other First Ladies, her career in the newspaper business not only supported her husband during his extended illness, but also helped to establish him as a successful politician.

This historical tribute promises to be an entertaining and educational evening providing a special link to the Bicentennial programs that will be taking place throughout the year. Sponsored by Southern State Student Activities and Women in College, audiences of all ages are invited to this free performance.