A Publication of the Boston Women’s Heritage Trail “Spirit Day”
Each day at the Institute teachers wrote a short reflection. Cheryl Brown-Greene, teacher at the Mary Lyon School and Advisory Board member, wrote this reflection on August 28: As I sat in the circle on the site that would be the future home of three great ladies, I could not help but think about my father. How excited he would have been to know I was involved in this project. As a little girl, every Sunday after Sunday school he would take my sister and me to a different historic site in Boston. He loved Boston and transferred that love and his knowledge to us. The entire day’s activities seemed to capture and magnify the lives and importance of these great women. Abigail: When I saw Karen from the Parks Department come in, I immediately remembered her as portraying Abigail at my sorority luncheon. I could remember her letters to Thomas Jefferson through her portrayal at this meeting, and the additional information she provided about Abigail. I imagined Abigail was truly visiting us. Imagination: When Phillis spoke to us, I imagined really meeting her and feeling somewhat sad that she did not know or realize during her life the impact she would have on the future. Or did she dare to hope? Knowing that I was sitting in a place that was a significant part of her life and walking up into the balcony where she sat were very powerful yesterday. Although I have been to the Meeting House several times before, Phillis’ “spirit” seemed to permeate the walls of the building. I felt a deeper understanding and appreciation of Phillis’ life, which ended much too soon. I wondered what would have happened if she could have published her second book of poetry and letters. What impact would the additional book have had on history? What impact would she have had on the free and slave African-American community of that time if she had lived to her 60’s? Lucy: From meeting the artist who would capture her in bronze, to the other representations of her on canvas and in stone at the Boston Public Library and the State House I could feel her “spirit” had impacted the lives of so many past and present. Her courage to speak out clearly has been a platform for equality for all women. Her imagination and wit armed her with a gift for words whose power has left a lasting impression not only on Boston but the world. Each woman’s voice and spirit were clearly present yesterday in each activity. I had a great day full of learning, imagination and fun! I also got a lot of exercise! BWHT Brochure Many more people are learning about BWHT thanks to our new publication: a brochure which is distributed free at tourist sites throughout Boston. Thanks to the Cabot Family Charitable Trust for funding this project.	Welcome New Members!! Harron Ellenson Barbara Irvine Michelle Jenney Lois Lindauer Pat Rogers Jamaica Plain Historical Society Renewals Bonnie and Perry Norton Lucille Taitt
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