March is National Women's History Month

March is celebrated as National Women’s History Month. According to the National Women's History Project:

Although women’s history is intertwined with the history shared with men, several factors - social, religious, economic, and biological - have worked to create a unique sphere of women's history. This celebration, designated by Joint Resolutions of the House and Senate and Proclamations by six American Presidents, is an opportunity to honor and celebrate women's historic achievements. Our shared history unites families, communities, and nations.

The stories of women’s achievements are integral to the fabric our history. Learning about women’s tenacity, courage, and creativity throughout the centuries is a tremendous source of strength. Until relatively recently, this sphere of women's history was overlooked and undervalued. Women’s achievements were often distorted, disdained, and denied. But, knowing women’s stories provides essential role models for everyone. And role models are genuinely needed to face the extraordinary changes and unrelenting challenges of the 21st century.

This celebration is an opportunity to honor and celebrate women's achievements, particularly on the local level. In keeping with National Women’s History Month theme for 2011, “Our History is Our Strength,” during March we honor the contributions of women throughout Beaufort’s long history in the Research Room display case as well as in this blog.

Charmaine chose to highlight the contributions of Kate Gleason, Mary Elizabeth Waterhouse, Harriet Tubman, Charlotte Forten, Eliza Lucas Pinckney and Laura Towne, some of whom were featured in last month's focus on Black History.

SCIway has posted a page called "Special Women in SC History."

Stay tuned for highlights on specific women and women's organizations who've had an impact on Beaufort through the ages.