Girlhood in 1820s Baltimore
This presentation will reflect on the limitation of gender imposed on the lives of two girls in Baltimore City, Virginia Clemm Poe (born on August 15, 1822) and Frances E.W. Harper (born September 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 subfield of girlhood studies.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Ida Jones serves as the Associate Director of Special Collections and University Archivist at Morgan State University. 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 growing since she recently moved to the city.
