OHIO — As we celebrate Women's History Month, we go to a museum in Canton that's highlighting how this nation's First Ladies have impacted American life.
Jennifer Highfield is the president and CEO of the National First Ladies' Library and the First Ladies National Historic Site. She joined Spectrum News 1 to share insight on the women who have helped shape the country when they served in the White House.
Along with explaining the opportunities volunteers have at each location, Highfield talks about the First Ladies from Ohio — where most of the women are from, and the platforms each one had while in the White House.
Highfield said the First Ladies of Ohio had a lot to contribute to the American people. Lucretia Garfield, Ida McKinley and Florence Harding were strong supporters of women's rights. During war time, Highfield said Garfield wrote a letter in secret to officials demanding that a woman doctor be addressed by her title, and not be called a "nurse."
Jackie Kennedy helped elevate the image of the White House as the "People's House." She and others did a lot of work to make sure the White House represented the general population.
Lucy Webb Hayes and Laura Bush worked through troubling times, such as the attack on September 11, 2001, and tried to help Americans remain strong despite uncertainty and hardship.
As many museums change schedules because of COVID-19, Highfield said they have limited openings but there are three exhibits happening now at the Education and Research Center. It will soon change to highlight the first 100 days of the First Lady Dr. Jill Biden.
There's also virtual learning options for those who can't come to the locations. Watch the interview above for more details.