Three special events mark Women's History Month at Fort Scott

In observance of Women's History Month, Fort Scott National Historic Site will feature three special programs on Saturdays in March. Visitors to these special events will have a unique opportunity to learn more about the 19th century woman and the society in which she lived.

On March 14, in a presentation titled, "On the Hem of History: Researching 19th Century Women's Lives," Michelle Martin, president of Discovering History, LLC and former history instructor at Fort Scott Community College, will explore the challenges of researching women's lives and how she turns her research into first person living history programs. The program will begin at 2 p.m.

"Sewing Social: Carpet-bags," will be presented on March 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Travel was becoming popular in the late 1840s and as a result, there was a need for luggage.

The first suitcases made in large numbers were appropriately called carpetbags. Makers would use pieces of carpet that were not completely worn out and could be manufactured inexpensively. Volunteer Joyce Gobl will be instructing this entertaining workshop. Participants will need to provide their own supplies, fabric, and sewing machine. Limited space is available. Call (620) 223-0310 to reserve a slot.

On March 28, park volunteer Pat Hartford will host a tatting workshop, called, "Knotting and Netting to Tatting."

Tatting was a skill common in the 19th century for the purpose of making lace for clothing. Participants may bring a shuttle or tatting needle.

The workshop will be from 9 a.m. to noon.