The Many Faces of Frances Willard

The Rock County Historical Society (RCHS) is proud to announce the launch of the Frances Willard Pioneering Women’s Lecture Series™. This new lecture series celebrates the legacies of the most influential women in Southern Wisconsin who were born before 1919 — the year women gained the right to vote in the U.S. In this inaugural event, celebrate the birthday of Frances E. Willard and explore the remarkable life and work of this trailblazing reformer. Raised in Janesville, Willard was one of the most influential advocates for women’s rights during the Gilded Age and beyond. This event will be the first in the Frances Willard Pioneering Woman Lecture Series. The series honors three generations of Hughes women who contributed to RCHS over the course of its 77 years, serving with distinction as officers, charter members, curators, master bakers, docents, and event planners. The presentation is led by Nancy Schultz, distinguished Frances Willard historian from the Frances Willard Rest Cottage and Archives in Evanston, Illinois. The lecture will shed light on Willard’s leadership, legacy, and lasting impact on the movement for women’s equality. The program will include a slide presentation and lecture, followed by a Q&A session and light refreshments. Program is appropriate for guests age 12 and older. Advance registration is recommended, as seating is limited. The series was developed and generously underwritten by the Hadley Hart Group.