Re-enactor: Welcome Home Elizabeth
Elizabeth for a Day

Studying local history is an important aspect of elementary school curriculum and the Elizabeth Cady Stanton Hometown Association took the opportunity to “bring Elizabeth home” to speak with Fulton County youth in September 2008 as part of the 250th anniversary celebration of the founding of Johnstown NY, her hometown.

On Friday morning, September 12, the First Presbyterian Church hosted 200 4th and 5th graders from Johnstown and Gloversville schools and their teachers for a Living History presentation by well-known, award-winning actress, Eleanor Stearns as equal rights activist Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Stearns’ portrayal was witty, moving, and captivated the young audience as she brought history to life in her narrative about this inspirational daughter of Johnstown.

Ms. Stearns’ interactive presentation invited questions from the students about this key suffragist as she told them the story of what life was like for Elizabeth as a girl growing up in the 1800s without the same rights as the boys in her community. The fact that she lived here made her life story all the more interesting to these curious students.

“I belonged to this church, though the building was situated in a different location when I was young,” the re-enactor told them. “As an adult,” she continued, “I did, however, attend services right here and gave talks on various occasions about women’s rights.” All eyes then surveyed the church, imagining her in this same place so long ago. It was an enlightening morning for everyone.

That same night at 7:00pm, Ms. Stearns gave a second performance for the community, which was also attended by Coline Jenkins, Elizabeth’s great-great granddaughter who enjoyed chatting with attendees during the reception afterwards.

Coline Jenkins, Mrs. Stanton's great-great-granddaughter,
and Eleanor Stearns, ECS re-enactor, chat with student.




Elizabeth Cady Stanton Hometown Association
P.O. Box 753
Johnstown, NY 12095-0753
© 2010