Women of Wayland
The Historical Commission and the Wayland Historical Society have collaborated on a new project called “Women of Wayland” as part of a general celebration of the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment and women suffrage. So in celebration of this 100th year of allowing women to express themselves through the written word, or visual expression or lifestyle and adventure we present Women of Wayland who come from different generations and backgrounds, with different talents and passions to help Wayland focus on the environment, appreciate intellect and to support one another. Their stories are about funny, feisty, curious, courageous, and accomplished ladies. You will be surprised, amazed, and amused.
Lydia Maria Child (1802-1880)
19th c. author, abolitionist and advocate for women’s rights
Mary Sears (1905-1997)
Highly educated naval officer, oceanographer and civic leader
Gladys Widdis (1914-2012)
Member of the Wampanoag Tribe who served as its president for nearly a decade 1978 to 1987
Shirley Mae (Armstrong) Barnes 1922-2018
WW II Nurse, Skilled Genealogist, Honored Guardian of Local History
Joyce “Jo” Cook Bertelsen Wilson (1923-2007)
“She was involved in everything in town”
Jessica Henderson (1867-1952)
Irrepressible upper class Woman’s suffrage activist
Marylynn Gentry (1957-2019)
Leader in Sudbury Valley Trustees and for the Community Preservation Act
Joan Weeks (Trimble) Smith (1924-2002)
Artist, writer and teacher
Carol Cox Stites (1926-2007)
Pilot, artist, mother, wife and beloved neighbor
Sarah Gregory Smith (1948-2020)
Teacher, musician, blind champion of guide dogs
Pamela Washek (1965-2012)
Founder and Director of the Neighborhood Brigade, successor to the Wayland Angel Food Network
Kathleen Sherry (1955-2016)
Special-Ed teacher, paralegal, leader