A Discussion with authors Tilly Laskey and Lizzie Ehrenhalt

Wednesday, October 2, 2019, 7pm

Please join Tilly Laskey and Lizzie Ehrenhalt in a discussion about their book “Precious and Adored: The Love Letters of Rose Cleveland and Evangeline Simpson Whipple, 1890-1918”.

In 1890, Rose Cleveland, sister of President Grover Cleveland, began writing to Evangeline Simpson, a wealthy widow who would become the second wife of Henry Whipple, Minnesota’s Episcopal bishop. The women corresponded across states and continents, discussing their advocacy and humanitarian work–and demonstrating their sexual attraction, romance, and partnership. In 1910, after Evangeline Whipple was again widowed, the two women sailed to Italy and began a life together

The letters, most written in Cleveland’s dramatic, quirky style, guide readers through new love, heartbreak, and the rekindling of a committed relationship. Lillian Faderman’s foreword provides the context for same-sex relationships at the time. An introduction and annotations by editors Lizzie Ehrenhalt and Tilly Laskey discuss the women’s social and political circles and explain references to friends, family, and historical events.

After Rose Cleveland’s death, Evangeline Whipple described her as “my precious and adored life-long friend.” This collection, rare in its portrayal of nineteenth-century LGBTQ history, brings their poignant story back to life.

Books will be available for sale at the event.

Admission: $3.00/Non-member
Free for RCHS Members and Students of all ages with school ID

The Rice County Historical Society is at at 1814 NW 2nd Ave., Faribault, MN. For questions call the RCHS Museum at 507-332-2121 or email us at rchs@rchistory.org. Reservations for the program are not required but are encouraged.