Janet Parnes
Quaker Girl Takes Washington’s Center Stage: The Influence of Dolley Madison
Stroll through the social and political swirl of post-Revolution America! Your escort will be Dolley Madison, the Quaker child who transformed herself into one of America’s most powerful First Ladies. Discover how this patriot used her charm, wit, and resourcefulness to unite our country and influence it socially and politically. The centerpiece of Washington’s high society and icon of graciousness, Dolley leveraged the social norms for women to reform Washington politicians, introduce women into the politics of the day, and earn the respect of the military and civilian populations. Come learn the extraordinary story behind the life of a first lady you know by name and find out about some of the ways she sculpted America’s evolution.
Janet Parnes (women-history.com, LadiesTell@gmail.com) has been whisking overlooked American heroines out of History’s dusty archives and bringing them to life for 20 years. Her portrayals transport audiences into the Colonial, Federalist, Victorian, and World-War eras. Through her company, Historical Portrayals by Lady J, Millis (women-history.com), Janet brings to life ladies that include “Presidentress” Dolley Madison, Massachusetts Revolutionary War heroine Deborah Sampson, the force behind FDR’s New Deal, Miss Frances Perkins, as well as other influential foremothers. Janet has performed at History Camp Boston, the Massachusetts State House, and John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum as well as museums, libraries, senior centers, schools, and historical societies across New England. Janet’s media appearances include the Boston Globe, Worcester Telegram & Gazette, Metro West Daily News, Patriot Ledger, and Calling History podcast.
