Women’s History Month is the perfect time to spotlight trailblazing females who hailed from Pennsylvania and those with special ties to the Alle-Kiski Valley, according to Harrison library leaders.
From Rachel Carson, Springdale native and founder of the modern environmental movement, to Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, these women didn’t let gender dictate their choices or limit their accomplishments, said Kathy Bollinger, history and genealogy coordinator at the Community Library of Allegheny Valley.
“Our program brings forward the stories of remarkable women who helped shape our region but whose contributions are not always widely known,” library Director Suzy Ruskin said.
The library will host “Who Knew? Notable Women,” at 6 p.m. March 17.
Bollinger selected women who struck her as bold, daring or otherwise courageous in the face of challenges.
Nelly Bly, born in Armstrong County, was a journalist who focused on exposing injustices at factories and institutions, among other places.
Amelia Earhart, pioneering aviator, crash landed at Rodgers Field in O’Hara years before becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932.
“Their stories remind us that local history is filled with individuals who quietly broke barriers and made a lasting impact on the community we know today,” said Julia Strzesieski, library adult programmer.
“Local history is full of extraordinary women whose stories are often overlooked.”
Ruskin said the library has become much more than a place to borrow books. Programs like these reflect the library’s role as a place for lifelong learning and community conversation, she said.
“We’re especially excited to host a program that focuses on women with ties to our area,” Ruskin said. “Learning about these individuals helps deepen our community’s understanding of local history and reminds us that many important stories are right here in our own backyard.”