New York City to Open America’s First Center for Women’s History

Believe it or not, the United States does not have a museum or hall or anything else dedicated to women’s history. The city of New York plans to change this March 8, coincidentally International Women’s Day.

The fourth floor of the New York Historical Society will serve as home to this dedicated area for women’s contributions to America. Rotating exhibits, an education center and an interactive multimedia installation, all of which will educate visitors about women who have been influential in America’s history. The multimedia demonstration will be tiled “Women’s Voices” where an interactive touchscreen will display an array of both known and not-so-known women who have made strides in women’s rights.

The first temporary exhibit will feature Dolley Madison, the wife of the fourth president James Madison, and will transport visitors back in time to America’s beginnings. Artifacts such as the former first lady’s books, clothing, jewelry and furniture will be on display. A separate exhibit will feature belongings from female tennis player Billie Jean King, such as uniforms worn and rackets used as King dominated on and off the tennis court while fighting for equal pay for female athletes.