The GGRWHC is a proud sponsor of this popular event. One day, six programs, one location. The 15th annual History Detectives program will highlight stories of the people who helped shape West Michigan. Order lunch via Eventbrite.
Jennifer Tompkins of the Grand Rapids Asia-Pacific Foundation will share the story of the often-overlooked Japanese "War Bride" community in West Michigan, and how its members built a support network that helped the next generation of Japanese brides who arrived during the Vietnam War. Through oral histories, family photographs, and historical records, Tompkins will reveal […]
Please join the Greater Grand Rapids Women's History Council for the annual reception: Tuesday, April 16, 5:30-7 p.m. L. William Seidman Center, 50 Front St. SW, Grand Rapids GVSU Pew Grand Rapids Campus Presentation by GGRWHC Board Member Sophia Brewer, followed by appetizers, beer/wine. Watch for details via newsletter, website, social media.
Annual Ottawa Hills Hollyhock Lane July 4th Parade You are invited to join the Greater Grand Rapids Women's History Council as we continue the tradition of marching in the Hollyhock Parade, the oldest continuous parade in Michigan. Meet us at the corner of Calvin and Alexander at 8 a.m. and join the fun with bands, […]
Grand Rapids Public Museum holds a precious and iconic image of the women's suffrage movement: a poster given to newly registered female voters in Grand Rapids in 1919. The poster, decorated in patriotic colors of red, white, and blue, proclaims, "A woman here registered to vote thereby assuming the responsibility of citizenship." Join Ruth Stevens, […]
From 1956 to 1958, Minnie Forbes owned the Negro League Baseball Team the Detroit Stars. Join George Bayard of the Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives to learn more about the Negro Leagues and their local and national impact and enjoy his conversation with Minnie Forbes about her experiences owning the team.
Dr. Liette Gidlow of Wayne State University explores the development of the League of Women Voters in Grand Rapids and First Lady Betty Ford's historic membership during the fight for the ERA.
A conversation with acclaimed carillonist, Jullianne Vanden Wyngaard and Local Historian, Cindy Laug.
Join us as Julie Tabberer, a member of the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council and head of the Grand Rapids History Center, shares how Helen Claytor’s leadership and activism transformed the YWCA from a place where women could have lunch together without being escorted by a man to an organization committed to eliminating racism […]
