History will come alive at the McLane Audubon Center on Thursday, Aug. 7, at 7 p.m. when the public will be invited to travel back to 1830 and meet Lucy Bakewell Audubon, wife of the famed naturalist, artist and author of Birds of America.
Mrs. Audubon will be portrayed by actress Kelly Brengelman, a special guest presenter from the Kentucky Humanities Council. Brengelman will wear period costume and tell stories of the struggles and opportunities that Lucy and John faced to accomplish his goal of painting and publishing life-sized images of all the birds of North America.
The publication may have never been possible if it were not for the steadfast determination of Lucy. Born into a privileged life in England, she immigrated to America at the turn of the 19th century, where she met the flamboyant Frenchman. It was not easy being the wife of John James Audubon. Her romance, marriage and business life with him were filled with sacrifice and public scorn, yet Lucy remained devoted to her husband – emotionally and financially. It was a role she took reluctantly, but Lucy proved to be a stronger woman than even she imagined.
Experience this amazing love story and its lasting legacy on the art world and conservation movement by meeting “Audubon’s Leading Lady.” This presentation is made possible through a grant from the New Hampshire Humanities Council, with cooperation from the Kentucky Humanities Council.
The program is free, but seating is limited so reservations are recommended. Call 224-9909 ext. 313 to reserve your seat. This program is part of New Hampshire Audubon’s centennial celebration.
To learn more about this or other events call 224-9909 or visit the website, nhaudubon.org.
