THEY CHANGED MORE THAN DIAPERS
The Women of Shirley Plantation

Long before the age of suffragettes and the struggle for women’s rights, the women of Shirley were making a name for themselves in a man’s world. In honor of Women’s History Month, Shirley Plantation will host our own “Women of Shirley Month”. From March 1 - 31, 2011 thematic tours will focus on the role of women in Shirley’s history and how they helped protect and preserve the family and estate through eleven generations. These women have been instrumental in shaping almost 400 years of history here at Shirley Plantation.

During the month of March, find out how Mary Braxton Randolph Carter and the women of Shirley showed compassion for the wounded and dying Union soldiers after the Battle of Malvern Hill and saved this plantation from plunder and destruction. Discover how two women of the 9th generation were able to guide the property through both World Wars and The Great Depression. These are just a few of the amazing tales that are waiting to be told during “The Women of Shirley Month”. If not for the dedication and diligence of these leading ladies of Shirley, including the contributions of women who were indentured servants and slaves, the Carter family legacy would be very different.


Left: Louise Humphreys Carter
Middle: Alice Carter Bransford
Right: Marion Carter Oliver

The “Women of Shirley” thematic tour is included with regular admission to Shirley Plantation which is $11.00 for adults and $7.50 for youths (6-18), with discounts for active-duty military, seniors, and AAA members. Shirley is located on Scenic Route 5, just 10 miles east of Richmond and 35 miles west of Williamsburg. For more information and directions, call 1-800-232-1613.

Shirley Plantation is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Located on Scenic Route 5, just 10 miles east of I-295 near Richmond and 35 miles west of Williamsburg. For more information call 1-800-232-1613.
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