I first learned of Annemarie Schwarzenbach from a NY Times article a friend of mine shared on Facebook titled “Beautiful Tomboys of the 1930’s.” The photos of Annemarie were striking and intriguing. I instantly wanted to know more about her. Then I did as many do after reading an article, I saved it and added … Continue reading Annemarie Schwarzenbach: Tragic and Transcendent – Tales from Wo-Fan’s Land
Arabella “Belle” Babb Mansfield (May 23, 1849-August 1, 1911) – is best known for being the first woman in the United States to pass the bar examination and the nation’s first female attorney. At the time she sat for the bar, Iowa law required applicants for bar admission to be white, male, and over the … Continue reading Arabella Babb Mansfield – Tales from Wo-Fan’s Land
Ask anyone to name the Queens of England and they will probably manage the two Elizabeths and Victoria, perhaps Queen Anne if they are keen on furniture and Bloody Mary if they really know their Tudors. Few know much about our first post-Norman Queen, the Empress Matilda. When she died the epitaph on her tomb … Continue reading The Empress Matilda (1102-1167) – Tales from Wo-Fan’s Land
Being an History in Verse of the Mother of the Societie of Friends. Meant For Musick or Plain Songge, mayhap with Guitarre or Squeze Bokse. Come gather round Friends, I've a story to tellof a seventeenth century north-country gel,she fought for the poor and for women as well,Yes, this is the ballad of Margaret Fell. … Continue reading The Ballad of Margaret Fell – Tales from Wo-Fan’s Land
I first read about Dr. James Barry whilst studying with the Open University over ten years ago. I was fascinated by the story. Born around 1790 the doctor had an illustrious career, rising through the ranks of the British Army as a surgeon to become the Inspector General (equivalent of Brigadier) in charge of hospitals … Continue reading Dr. James Barry – Tales from Wo-Fan’s Land
History Is Important 