Events › An "Altered Woman": Mary Lincoln and Women's Mental Health in the 19th Century

Mary Lincoln is considered the most controversial First Lady in U. S. History. Her life was filled with tragedy and loss. Fifteen years after witnessing her husband's assassination, her only surviving son worked with lawyers and physicians to legally commit her to a mental institution. Against her son's wishes, she worked with attorney friends to secure her release and then fled to Europe, fearing another forced recommitment. Historians and physicians are still debating what caused her physical and emotional challenges.

Please join us to learn more about her life, and the public condemnation she suffered for behaviors that are still misunderstood.

This presentation is brought to you by Speaking Of..., a lecture series facilitated by community members and the Castro Valley Library.

Speaker Profile

• Jane Wolford is Professor Emerita of U. S. Women's History. She retired from Chabot College in 2023 after a 40-year teaching career. She holds a B.A. and M.A. in U. S. History, with a concentration in U. S. Women's History. Jane has lived in Castro Valley with her family since 1979.
  

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