Rochester Library Explores Science, Stowe and Stanton

ROCHESTER HILLS, MI — Residents are invited to join Rochester University Professor Anne Nichols as she explores how historic icons Harriet Beecher Stowe and Elizabeth Cady Stanton leveraged science and theology to advance the role of women in nineteenth-century America. The event is set for Sept. 10 at the Rochester Hills Public Library.

Harriet Beecher Stowe is best known as the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin and her work as an abolitionist in nineteenth-century America. Her novel depicting the unethical treatment of slaves was one of the catalysts for the Civil War. Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a suffragist, social activist, and was also an abolitionist. She famously led the Seneca Falls Convention in July 1848 and took the lead in fighting for women’s right to vote.

“Evolution and the Bible may seem to be at odds with each other, but nineteenth century public figures like Harriet Beecher Stowe and Elizabeth Cady Stanton used them both to argue for broader roles for women in society. It's fascinating to see how these women engaged male-dominated discussions of scientific theories and hermeneutics to challenge stereotypes of women,” said Nichols.

Nichols’ presentation will not just discuss the historic actions of each woman, it will also dive deeply into the way they leveraged both science and theology to further their causes and create change that can still be seen more than 100 years later.

“At the Rochester Hills Public Library, we’re very excited to explore this part of American history with our patrons, especially because the topics are still very relevant today,” said Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley.

The Suffragette Genius program is part of the Smart Towns lifelong learning program. Partners in this initiative work together to provide a unique series of programs exploring a specific theme or topic each year. The Rochester Hills Public Library is one of several local organizations that hostthese lectures.

The program is Sept. 10 from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room and is open to everyone with an RHPL library card. This program is geared toward adults but all ages are welcome. You can register in advance at rhpl.org.