WIDOW’S WEEDS, written by local historian Dyan Wapnick and directed by NYC playwright and director Robert C. Lyons, tells the true story of Mary Ingalls, who in 1842 at 84 years of age applied for her husband Elihu Ingalls’ pension under the Pension Act of 1836, which extended pension benefits to Revolutionary War widows for the first time. Elihu had served in the NY militia and died in 1823 without ever receiving his pension. Unfortunately, nearly all of his service papers and proof of their marriage were lost, and Mary had to rely on oral testimonies -- and her own memory -- to support her application.
Using primary source material from Revolutionary War Pension files in the National Archives, with additional music and fanciful elements, WIDOW'S WEEDS* gives voice to widows, a historically marginalized segment of society, and to the men and women who fought for our right to "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
Brought to you by the Little Nine Partners Historical Society and the same production team that does the wildly popular Evergreen Cemetery Tours.
* a very old term for a widow's garments.
A Reception will follow the performance.
Paid for in part by Dutchess County.
