Legendary Ladies Making History Come Alive

Join us for an entertaining and surprising day with the “Unconventional Women of the West," presented by the Legendary Ladies. The Ladies will make history come alive by sharing tales of women who helped shape the West. Get ready for a little something different from a group of women who are sure to make you laugh, reflect, and appreciate the West.

Legendary Ladies Cast of Characters for March 11, 2023 at Penrose Library

Maud Nelson: 1881-1944 American Baseball Player

This baseball barnstormer was a world-renowned Bloomer Girl pitcher, third baseman, scout, manager, and owner of the best baseball teams of her era. Passionate about the sport, this professional was touted as "the greatest all-around female ball player in existence." Engaging! Inductee in National Women’s Baseball Hall of Fame. Victorian Sport Costume

Anne Evans: 1871-1941 Cultural Pioneer

Born in Colorado, Anne Evans helped to transform Denver into a “City Beautiful”. She was influential in the founding the Denver Art Museum, Denver Public Library and restoration of the Central City Opera House. She worked for the recognition of American Indian art, especially in the Southwest. Fascinating. Inductee in Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame and Colorado Business Hall of Fame. 1930’s Costume

Josie Bassett: 1874-1964 Homesteader and Rustler

Notorious, generous, strong-willed and loveable—mix those qualities together and you’ve got Josie Bassett, moonshiner, rustler, and homesteader who lived the simple life despite world changes around her. Delightful. 1920’s Western Costume

Mabel Dodge Luhan: 1879-1962 Philanthropist/Bohemian Rebel

She was called a Bohemian rebel with too much money and too many husbands, but Mabel Dodge Luhan used her connections to make Taos, New Mexico, a world famous art colony and was an advocate for the Taos Pueblo Indians. Her Taos home has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Artfully told. 1920’s Costume

Lola Montez: 1818 – 1862 Dancer & Actress

Flamboyant dancer and actress, Lola Montez enjoyed worldwide fame while critics alternately praised and railed against her. Wildly adored by the American public, she reached her height of popularity in California during the gold rush years. Lively and entertaining. Inductee in Theater Hall of Fame. Victorian Costume