Girlhood in 1820s Baltimore

Description

This presentation will reflect on the limitation of gender imposed on the lives of two girls in Baltimore City, Virginia Clemm Poe (born on Aug. 15, 1822) and Frances E.W. Harper (born Sept. 24, 1825). These two women born into working-class families lived separate realities in 1820s Baltimore. Yet, their worlds were profoundly shaped by gender norms that conscripted their worlds, choices, and trajectories. Looking at their lives contributes to the sub-field of girlhood studies.

About the Speaker

Ida Jones serves as the associate director of Special Collections and university archivist at Morgan State University and is a noted professional archivist and historian, award-winning author, educator, and recognized leader in the field of African American women's history. She is a member of the Baltimore City Historical Society and the Maryland Women's Heritage Center. Her interest in Baltimore history is a growing interest since recently moving to the city.