Course 124: Legendary Ladies of Pennsylvania

Betsy Ross        Painting by Jennie Brownscombe        Grace Kelly

Leader: Barbara Hart Yorks

Description: The Pennsylvania Commission on Women created by former governor, Ed Rendell, identified important women from different regions of the state who have made major contributions in Pennsylvania and/or the United States. This course will examine the lives and contributions of a number of these women. The women are: Betsy Ross, Sarah Josepha Buell Hale, Charlotte Vandine Forten and Grace Kelly from the Philadelphia area, Kathryn Kuhlman, Mary Lou Williams and, Anne Lee Willet of the Pittsburgh area, and Louise Tanner Brown, Marion Margery Warren Scranton, Jennie Brownscombe and Anna Drinker from the northeast mountain region. These women made their mark on the social, cultural, political, intellectual and religious dimensions of Pennsylvania and/or the United States. Their areas of expertise and contributions vary, but their drive, passion, talent and imprint are factors that tie them together. Two or three of these women will be examined in each class. The course will examine the factors that shaped their lives, the obstacles these individuals faced, the victories they achieved, the significance of their contributions, and the role gender played in their accomplishments. At the end of the term, class members will have the option to visit the communities and homes of some of these famous women.

Biography: Barbara Hart Yorks graduated from Bucknell University with a BA in English. She received a MDIV from Methodist Theological School and a DMIN from Asbury Theological Seminary. Barbara has pastored churches in various congregations in the United Methodist Church in Central PA. She has served as Campus Minister at Ohio State Newark Branch and Associate Pastor in New Cumberland. Barbara has taught Lay Speaking Classes for her denomination led retreats on Spiritual Gifts and Sabbath, and spoken at professional women's groups.

Materials for Course: Information for the course will be provided by reading handouts, lecture, videos and power point presentations. Lively discussion among class members will be encouraged.

Number of Participants: Minimum: 6; Maximum: 16

Location: Parlor - First Presbyterian Church, Market Street, Lewisburg - changed location

Meeting Time: Fridays, March 1 - April 5, 1 - 2:30 p.m.