The Civil War was not only a turning point in American history, but also one in the history of women in America.  In these Victorian times, all women could not vote, and married women could not own or inherit property, or get a divorce even from an abusive or adulterous husband.  Nevertheless, they proved their ability and patriotism during the war by managing the farms, plantations, and homes of the men who had gone off to fight the war.

Some women volunteered to cook for the troops, to sew uniforms, to organize aid groups and fundraisers for the troops, to nurse injured soldiers, and even to become secret operatives.  On Oct. 25, , The Friends of Fort Trumbull will welcome Professor Nancy Steenburg, who will explore these roles of women, speaking on The Women of New London during the Civil War.

Professor Steenburg is an Adjunct Professor in History and Director of the Bachelor of General Studies Program at the University of Connecticut, Avery Point.  A graduate of Radcliffe College at Harvard University, Trinity College, and the University of Connecticut, she is the author of many articles and the book Children and Criminal Law in Connecticut.

Recently, she has become Vice-President of the Association for the Study of Connecticut History, President of the New London Historical Society, and a contributing author for the recently published The Rockets’ Red Glare, dealing with the War of 1812.  Drawing upon extensive research in the archives of the New London County Historical Society, she will discuss the roles taken by New London women and the N.L. Ladies’ Soldiers’ Aid Society.

The meeting will take place in the Conference Center at Fort Trumbull State Park, 90 Walbach St., New London at 7 p.m.  The public is invited to attend, but seating is limited.

For more informatio,n visit www.fortfriends.org