The Friends of the Dover Public Library are pleased to
host Dover resident Michele Wehrwein Albion, editor of the new book, “The
Quotable Eleanor Roosevelt”, on Tuesday, October 8 at 7pm.
Having researched Mrs. Roosevelt extensively, Michele will offer new insights into one of America’s most
misunderstood First Ladies.
Born in the late 1800s to one of the
wealthiest families in New York City, Eleanor Roosevelt seemed destined for a
traditional woman’s role within a sedate Victorian life. Instead, she married
her fifth cousin and was flung into the highest levels of American politics,
culminating in Franklin’s unprecedented four-term presidency. Eleanor’s bold
opinions on political, social, and racial issues took many by surprise. She
held press conferences and wrote a syndicated column. She spoke at national
conventions, granted interviews, and often made appearances on her husband’s behalf.
Her own influence lasted years beyond his death. She advocated for human
rights, worked with the United Nations, and supported what later became the
civil rights movement.
The fascinating quotes collected
by Michele Albion reveal an articulate, honest, and thoughtful woman. Of war,
she said, “I hope the day will come when all that inventing and mechanical
genius will be used for other purposes.” At a time when racism prevailed,
Eleanor said, “We must be proud of every one of our citizens, for regardless of
nationality, or race, every one contributes to the welfare and culture of the
nation.” Organized by topic—government, money, art, education, class,
relationships, emotions—these quotations disclose not only Roosevelt’s personal
thoughts shared in letters and conversations, but also her strong opinions
expressed in speeches and interviews. Each gives evidence of her character and
her beliefs. Her words continue to resonate today.
Michele Wehrwein Albion grew up in Maine with a great respect for
the past. She has
degrees
from the University of Maine and George Washington University. Before becoming
a writer, Albion worked at the Fort Western Museum, The Maine State Museum, The
U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and The Edison and Ford Winter Estates. She
is the author of “The Florida Life of Thomas Edison” and editor of “The Quotable Edison” and “The Quotable Henry Ford”.
One reviewer has called her new book “Clearly
the definitive book of Eleanor Roosevelt quotes. Albion does excellent work
weeding out all the apocryphal quotes so often attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt,
giving us only the real thing.” Signed copies of “The Quotable Eleanor
Roosevelt” will be available for purchase. This
program is free and open to the public. For more information, please
contact the Dover Public Library at 603-516-6050.
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