Elementary-School Program

In her military uniform, Deborah Sampson visits (your) school to educate and captivate children with her story. This young Massachusetts woman, who fought, undetected, as a Revolutionary-War soldier, tells a story that shows students how persistence, respect, courage, etc. powered her to succeed despite the challenges of being a poor servant girl in Colonial America.

Coronation Tea
For aspiring princesses ages 4-8

"Ladies of the Court, I present to you Princess…." The magic of a royal coronation blends with the charm of a children’s tea party to produce an event that will enrapture any little girl who has dreams of becoming a princess.

The Proper Patient of 1900
Unraveling the mysteries and myths of Victorian medicine

In the context of afternoon tea in her parlour, Myrtle Mills, a proper Victorian lady who has endured "every illness known to man", offers her perspective on the myths and miracles of Victorian medicine. Myrtle delves into good-health essentials such as the dangers of noxious odors, prevention, kitchen remedies, pregnancy protocols, scientific breakthroughs, etc. This tongue-in-cheek performance highlights the advancement of medicine in the latter part of the 19th century as well as the abundance of misinformation. For You Tube video visit http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Janet+PArnes&aq=f or visit www.youtube.com and type "Janet Parnes" into the Search box.

The Etiquette Expert of 1890
For Ladies and Gentlemen

Sip raspberry tea and nibble on delectable delicacies as Mrs. Russell (Jeannette) Parsons welcomes you into her 1890 parlour. Mrs. Parsons will escort you on a promenade back in time, where you will experience the graciousness of Victorian America. She is certain to regale (and upon occasion "shock:") you, with snippets from her life as a late nineteenth-century middle-class lady.

Hats, Heroism, and Hospitality: First Lady Dolley Madison
First Lady of Hospitality

Known for her graciousness, First Lady Dolley Madison tells the story behind her rise from a Quaker child to First Lady. The driving force behind James' Madison's political ascendancy, Dolley never forgot her humble beginnings. This lively performance highlights her loves, tribulations, and victories as a powerful yet compassionate socialite in Federalist-Era America. Although she mingled with the Washington elite, Dolley Madison was a woman of humility, as well as grace and courage.For You Tube video visit http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Janet+PArnes&aq=f or visit www.youtube.com and type "Janet Parnes" into the Search box.