Learn About Female Pioneers

This oil on canvas portrait of Rachel Jackson was painted in 1941 by Howard Chandler Christy after an earlier work by Ralph E. W. Earl. Rachel Jackson was married to President Andrew Jackson, but died suddenly just after his election and before he was inaugurated. Because of this, she never officially held the title of First Lady. The first lady’s duties as official White House hostess were undertaken by her niece, Emily Donelson.

Keys History & Discovery Center Presents…Florida’s First Ladies, a lecture on Wednesday, Feb. 19 with Peggy Macdonald, an author, historian and adjunct professor. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., lecture begins at 6 p.m. The lecture is at the Keys History & Discovery Center and Islander Resort Conference Center, MM 82.

Join Macdonald as she shares the fascinating stories of some of Florida’s most memorable First Ladies, from the territorial period to today, and their impact on the Sunshine State. Meet women such as Rachel Donelson, who moved with her second husband, Andrew Jackson, to territorial Florida in 1821; and Martha Starke Peay Perry, who witnesses the rise of secession at the dawn of the Civil War.

Learn about Florida May Mann Jennings, married to Florida Governor William Sherman Jennings, who was a suffragist and conservationist who was known as the most powerful woman in Florida. Join us has Dr. Macdonald brings Florida history to life in a presentation that blends vintage photographs and historic postcards with lovely storytelling.

Appetizers and a cash bar will be available. Members are free. Non-members cost is $10. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made at 305-922-2237 or info@keysdiscovery.com.