Join EWHP for a Weekend Celebration of Evanston’s Women’s History

Rest Cottage with Willard, Anna Gordon and Mary Thompson Hill Willard
Rest Cottage with Willard, Anna Gordon and Mary Thompson Hill Willard

Saturday, September 26th

What: Walking Tour through Evanston’s Amazing Women’s History

When: 11:00 am-12:30 pm

Where: Frances Willard House, 1730 Chicago Avenue

Sunday September 27th

What: 150th Anniversary Celebration of Frances Willard’s “Rest Cottage”

When: 1:00-4:00 pm

Where: Frances Willard House, 1730 Chicago Avenue

Come enjoy two activities celebrating Evanston’s long history and the women who put Evanston on the national stage.

On Saturday September 26th, visit the places where Evanston women made history on this walking tour through downtown Evanston. Starting at the Frances Willard House and traveling through the nearby neighborhood, this tour will highlight the stories of Evanston women and women’s organizations. The tour is co-sponsored by the Frances Willard Historical Association and the Evanston Women’s History Project at the Evanston History Center. Kris Hartzell, EHC’s Director of Facilities and Visitor Services, will give the tour. The tour will take place on Saturday from 11:00-12:30 pm and begin and end at the Willard House at 1730 Chicago Avenue. The fee is $10 per person and reservations are suggested. Please RSVP to Kris Hartzell at [email protected] or 847-475-3410.

On Sunday September 27th, the Frances Willard Historical Association will celebrate Willard’s birthday and the 150th anniversary of Rest Cottage on the front lawn of the house, 1730 Chicago Avenue. Rest Cottage was the home of Frances Willard, a long-time Evanston resident who was at the forefront of the movement to improve the lives of women and children in the 19th century. Among her many social reform efforts were a woman’s right to vote, and children’s protection in the workplace. This family-friendly event will take place from 1-4 pm and include light refreshments, cake, and a concert by the Ridgeville Band beginning at 3:00. For more information, contact: Glen Madeja at [email protected]. RSVPs are appreciated, but not required.