Women of Paradise: Legacy of the Female Boatloaders
Two hundred years ago, fifteen women and girls were among the scientists, artists, and educators who came to New Harmony on the so-called Boatload of Knowledge. Two names—Madame Fretageot and Lucy Sistare Say—are well-known, but who were the others? Who stayed on after the communitarian period ended, and who left? How did the female Boatloaders and their descendants improve New Harmony, the Midwest, the country, and the world?
As a recipient of WMI’s Arlene Feiner Memorial Research Grant for Women’s Studies, Rebecca May Hope has delved deeply into archives, old newspapers, and genealogies to trace the historical threads of each woman and girl. Woven together, these strands create an intricate tapestry of influence. The female Boatloaders and their descendants had an outsized impact on medicine, law, politics, diplomacy, the arts, culture, and charitable organizations. You’ll be surprised and inspired by the far-reaching legacies these utopia-seekers left. Two centuries later, we’re all richer for their contributions to society.
FWMI LECTURE SERIES-Buried Perceptions-Indigenous Earthworks within the Harmonist Cemetery
Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites Manager for New Harmony, Kelley Morgan, will explore the Indigenous Earthworks of the Harmonist Cemetery.
Kelley started as the Historic Sites Manager for New Harmony in July 2024. Previously, she worked as an Interpretative Naturalist for Indiana State Parks, serving Mounds State Park and Falls of the Ohio State Park. She leads hikes, gives sessions about the Indigenous earthworks, and supports community outdoor education programs, making her a valuable member of the New Harmony community.
This presentation is free and accessible to the public.
Board of Trustees Meeting
Monthly Board of Trustees Meeting
WMI Membership Meeting
Quarterly WMI Membership Meeting
Board of Trustees Meeting
Monthly Board of Trustees Meeting
FWMI LECTURE-Astronomy and Astrophotography-Taking a Trip Through the Cosmos From Your Back Yard
Dr. Matt Rebeck, a neuropsychologist and psychologist at the MSD of Mt. Vernon Schools, and adjunct professor at the University of Southern Indiana, will present an engaging lecture exploring his interests in the fields of astronomy and astrophotography. This presentation promises to provide an insightful perspective on the wonders of the universe as seen through the lens of both scientific inquiry and artistic expression.
This presentation is free and accessible to the public.
Board of Trustees Meeting
Monthly Board of Trustees Meeting
Board of Trustees Meeting
Monthly Board of Trustees Meeting
FWMI INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
Andrew Wilson, a respected lifelong resident of New Harmony and the recipient of the 2025 Sagamore of the Wabash award, will be the keynote speaker for the Independence Day celebration.
WMI Membership Meeting
Quarterly WMI Membership Meeting
Board of Trustees Meeting
Monthly Board of Trustees Meeting
Board of Trustees Meeting
Monthly Board of Trustees Meeting