March is Womens History Month, so it’s perfectly fitting that today is also International Womens Day. Today we’re sharing some of our favourite places in our home state of New York which highlight the incredible achievements of notable women in the US. We’re proud to be living and working in a state that was home to so many iconic achievements of women.
These destinations would make a great educational and entertaining day-trip to visit with family and friends over Spring Break. Got a fave location we’ve left off the list? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know in a comment on our social media and we may include it in a future update!
Alice Austen House in Staten Island
Once the home of photographer Alice Austen, this building on the shores of the NY Narrows Harbor, is now a museum included in the Historic House Trust. The museum’s goal is to use the arts and creativity to educate and inspire through photography, and the life and history of Austen. Austen created more than 7,000 photographs documenting the photographic history of the evolution of New York City and State, Victorian women’s social patterns, and the world around her. Austen defied the traditional chaste values of Victorian society, carrying on several relationships with women, and documenting intimate relationships of other women in her realm. In fact, she had a 53 year long loving relationship and passionate romance with Gertrude Tate, making her work even more important as an icon in LGBTQ+ history.
Center for Women’s History at New-York Historical Society Museum & Library in New York City
The goal of the Center for Women’s History is to highlight the lives and legacies of strong, creative women who have made major contributions to American history. The facility offers a wide range of informational programming, free web based workshops and materials, speaking engagements, and art exhibits. It also provides women with opportunities for scholarships and fellowships to further their education and scholarly pursuits.
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Society in Hudson Valley
Registered with the National Parks Service as a historic site, the former home of Eleanor Roosevelt has been preserved as a museum and educational site. Learn all about Eleanor Roosevelt and the influential work and philanthropy she considered through her political and social activism, and the legacy of the Roosevelt family. Val-Kill has plenty of acreage to explore with many gardens and trails to enjoy the great outdoors. But if you wish to explore the facilities, you can view one of the many exhibits, collections, or educational presentations! You can tour the grounds in person or virtually!
National Women’s Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls NY
Incorporated in 1969 as a 501c3, the National Women’s Hall of Fame is the United States first and oldest nonprofit organization and museum dedicated to highlighting the achievements and contributions of women. In 1973, the inaugural induction ceremony was held at Eisenhower College. Among the first women inducted to the Hall of Fame included names such as Helen Keller, Mary Cassatt, Emily Dickinson, Susan B. Anthony, Harriet Tubman, and many more. It reopened to the public in its current home, the Seneca Knitting Mill, in August of 2020, where it will continue to commemorate the lives of creative thinkers, bright minds, and strong spirits. The first floor gallery exhibit is complete and now open for visitors to learn even more about women’s stories of leadership and ingenuity. As renovations are completed, the facility will offer expanded lectures, exhibits, and educational programming.
Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Finger Lakes
Established in 1980 and now covering more than 6 acres of beautiful park land in Seneca Falls and Waterloo, this national historic landmark commemorates the story of the first Women’s Rights Convention in 1848. The main museum building holds two floors of exhibits, convention events, and The Guntzel Theater which shows educational films and presentations. The Wesleyan Chapel is also located on the grounds, and is the notable location of the First Women’s Rights Convention in 1848. Outside the museum and chapel is the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House, home to the infamous main organizer of the Seneca Falls’ Woman’s Rights Convention and author of the Declaration of Sentiments. Also on the grounds are the Mclintock House, Hunt House, and the incredible Waterwall at Declaration Park. It’s a beautiful destination and piece of iconic United States history!
Other notable destinations to visit in NY State: Matilda Joslyn Gage Home, The National Susan B Anthony Museum & House, Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Museum & Center for Comedy, Matilda Joslyn Gage Home, Harriet Tubman House, the NYS Women’s Heritage Trail
