A program co-sponsored with the Winchester Frederick County Historical Society  looks at the lives and times of some remarkable women. Bertha Von Hillern (1857-1939), once renowned as a competitive endurance walker; painter Maria J.C. a’Becket (1839-1904) and Emma Howard Wight (1863-1935), a prolific author of novels, short stories, plays, radio dramas and photoplays.

Researchers Cheryl Lyon, Hope Brim, and Neil Thorne will share their experiences rediscovering the lives of 3 women who had all but been forgotten. Bertha von Hillern and Maria a’ Becket, landscape artists, and Emma Howard Wight, a writer, lived and worked in Fisher’s Hill, Middletown, and Winchester in the late 1800’s into the 20^th Century. This presentation’s emphasis will be on the research process and the lives of these ladies who were very accomplished (especially as women) for the times in which they lived.

About the Presenters:

Cheryl Lyon -- Retired from designing and making products for museums, with a lifetime family connection to Fisher’s Hill. Lives at Dayton, where she owns historic Silver Lake Mill and is actively involved with Rockingham County history

Hope Brim -- Veteran public educator with an interest in Strasburg’s history. Currently serves as Board Secretary for the Strasburg Museum and is co-chair of the Ladies’ Horticultural Luncheon in conjunction with the Apple Blossom Festival. Lives in an historic home in Strasburg.

Neil Thorne -- Is a professional statistician and analyst and is a Shenandoah Valley native with a passion for research and history. He is an active member of the Strasburg Museum and lives at Fisher’s Hill in a restored Federal home.