From the moment Mary Lincoln became a public figure, many men have sought to label her, define her, and defame her. From 19th century journalists and biographers to 21st-century scholars, we have seen Mary painted as unstable, mean-spirited, and “crazy”. This picture continues today. But was that really who Mary Lincoln was? She was more than just a president’s wife. She was a grieving mother, public figure, and complex individual. Join in this panel discussion with three female historians as we hold an empathetic, evidence-based discussion about Mary Lincoln. Go beyond the surface stereotypes to learn more about this remarkable woman, and bring your questions for our experts to answer! Panelists are Callie Hawkins, Director of Programming at President Lincoln’s Cottage; Stacy McDermott, author of Mary Lincoln: Southern Girl, Northern Woman, and Erika Holst, Curator of History at the Illinois State Museum.Advanced registration is required at https://bit.ly/YouOkMary.

For more information please contact events@illinoisstatemuseum.org or (217) 782-6044.