226. Abby (and Julia) Smith and Their Cows

About this episode

This episode explores the Smith sisters' contributions to women's suffrage and their unique upbringing in the 18th century.

Last year, in Episode 217, listeners were introduced to Hannah Smith. Born in 1767, Hannah was the matriarch of the non-conformist Smith Family of Glastonbury. In the 2020s, her diaries inspired Leonard Raybon, a music professor at Tulane, to compose an original mini-musical based on her writings. You can view the debut performance of "Hannah and Her Daughters" here . This episode focuses on the next generation of the Smith family. Hannah Hickock married Zephaniah Smith of Glastonbury in 1786, and their marriage produced five daughters. Two of the daughters became nationally famous in the 1870s, around the time of the Bicentennial, for their stance in favor of women's suffrage. Natalie Belanger is joined by Diane Hoover, Education Director of the Glastonbury Historical Society , who told her about the Smith sisters' upbringing, their many talents, and how the two youngest became involved in the suffrage fight – in a protest that centered around their pet cows. You'll also hear about Julia Smith's achievements as a Biblical scholar, and how a romantic entanglement at the age of 87 provides a rather sad end to her remarkable life. Image: Portrait of Abby and Julia Smith, c. 1877…

People in this episode

Host: Natalie Belanger

Guest: Diane Hoover

Topics covered

• women's suffrage
• historical figures
• family history
• diaries
• cultural impact

Keywords

• Smith family
• suffrage
• Hannah Smith
• Julia Smith
• historical society

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Glastonbury Historical Society

Books & works: Hannah and Her Daughters

Places: Glastonbury

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