The W effect

No, we’re not referring to our current president—dare we utter his name—and the effects that he’s having on our nation. We’re talking about women and the positive contributions they’ve made in California. Strong-willed women like architect Julia Morgan, aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, suffragette Annie Bidwell and entertainers Lola Montez and Charlotte Mignon “Lotta” Crabtree. Women who’ve left a mark on the pages of California’s history. The point of the fifth annual Women’s History Day—and we think it’s a good one—is that these remarkable women, and others like them, deserve some serious recognition.

This Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Old Sacramento will play host to a variety of activities celebrating early California women. Visitors—both male and female—are invited to listen to guest speakers, watch historical re-enactments and visit a variety of female-centric exhibits.

From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., the Old Sacramento Visitor’s Center, located at 1004 Second Street, will feature presentations by members of the Old Sacramento Living History Program. Expect poetry readings, speeches and historical displays at this free event.

Throughout the day, local author Marilyn Demas will discuss the roles women have played in California’s educational system. Simply stop by the Schoolhouse Museum, located at Front and L streets, to pay tribute to these educated women. Admission to the schoolhouse is free.

At 2 p.m., head to the Delta King, located at 1000 Front Street, for an afternoon tea, complete with light refreshments and your choice of tea or coffee. Plus, enjoy a performance by actor Chris Enss, who will give historical re-enactments of Bidwell, Montez and Crabtree. Tickets for the event are $30 and are available by calling (916) 264-8142. For a complete list of the day’s activities, visit www.oldsacramentolivinghistory.com.