After the American Revolution, dozens of academies to educate young women opened up throughout Maine and New England. Geography was a significant aspect of education in 19th-century America. Dr. Libby Bischof will discuss the fascinating and understudied genre of “school girl maps.” Young women drew, copied, embellished maps, atlases, and globes. These decorative manuscripts reveal much about the education of women in 19th-century New England, and the personal and family histories of the individual young women who crafted the maps.

No registration required. Donations gratefully accepted.

The lecture is free and open to the public. The Old Berwick Historical Society’s 2023 lectures are generously sponsored by Kennebunk Savings and supported by historical society members and donors. More information is available by calling 207-384-0000 or at www.oldberwick.org.