So, You Think You Know Frances Willard? presentation by the Frances Willard Historical Association

The Frances Willard Historical Association continues its celebration of the 175th anniversary of Frances Willard’s birth with an intriguing presentation and reception.   “So, You Think You Know Frances Willard?” will be presented on May, 1, 2014 at the Evanston History Center, 225 Greenwood Street, Evanston.  Doors open at 6:30PM with presentation at 7PM and dessert reception to follow.  The event is open to the public at $10 per person (free to members of partnering organizations), advance reservations are suggested on franceswillardhouse.org.

The intriguing details of Willard’s life as one of the late 19th century’s preeminent social reformers and activists will be told by Lori Osborne, Director of the Evanston Women’s History Project.   Come hear the whole story of one of Evanston’s most famous citizens.    While Willard is frequently remembered for her role in the WCTU (Woman’s Christian Temperance Union), her pioneering persona as an influential feminist and women’s advocate is often lost.  

A year-long FrancesWillard@175 initiative is spearheaded by the Frances Willard Historical Association. The FWHA preserves and interprets the house museum (located at 1730 Chicago Avenue, Evanston) and its historic collections to promote vibrant discussion of Willard's life and her work on behalf of women, temperance, and human rights. The FWHA works to inspire and encourage leadership and broad participation in civic life as Willard's lasting legacy.   Additional community partners on this project include Alpha Phi Foundation, Evanston Women’s History Project, First United Methodist Church, League of Women Voters Evanston, Evanston History Center and Shorefront Legacy Center.