American women, after decades of struggle and demonstration, finally were given the right to vote in 1920 with the ratification of the 19^th amendment.  Did you know that the New Jersey constitution of 1776 gave women (adult single women—married women couldn’t own property–whose net worth was $50.00 or more) the right to vote?  On Saturday, October 19 at 1:30 pm, Carol Levin will be presenting, “Reclaiming Our Voice,” a talk focusing on this intriguing slice of our state’s early history.  The program chronicles New Jersey’s largely overlooked role in the women’s suffrage movement.  As the only state to have women’s suffrage, then lose it (the all-male legislature took it away in 1807), New Jersey was a symbol to many suffragists.

It was a long struggle for all. Only one person who attended the first national Women’s Rights Convention in 1850 lived long enough to see women attain the right to vote. Antoinette Brown Blackwell — life-long activist, minister, scientist and long-time New Jersey resident — proudly cast her ballot in Elizabeth, NJ in November 1920!

The talk will be presented in the barn at Rockingham State Historic Site, with time for questions and light refreshments to follow.  Seating is limited and it is suggested to register to guarantee a spot by calling 609-683-7132.  A donation of $5 per person is suggested.