Women's History

Nancy Brand, born October 11, 1943, discusses her childhood in New York and life as a young married woman trying to continue her education. Brand became active in the Bloomington women's movement in 1969. She was instrumental in establishing daycare cooperatives, support groups for women, the Midwest Alliance, and a Women's House. Brand also worked to gain abortion availability for women in Bloomington. She speaks of her passion for equal rights and her belief that for generations to come women will still be fighting for equality.

Marion H. Gottfried, born October 13, 1913, discusses Bloomington, Indiana civic affairs and politics. Topics include the Bloomington League of Women Voters, United Nations Committee, Bloomington Civil Liberties Union, Local Council of Women, health services and the Monroe County Council. The years covered in the interview are 1945-1974.

Bennie Koch was born June 30, 1885. The child of two activists and philanthropists, she and her siblings followed their lead. She discusses her education at Park College and her interest in public speaking. Koch explains her reaction to the passing of the Nineteenth Amendment and the chances for the Equal Rights Amendment. She is a member of the League of Women Voters and the American Association of University Women. She is also a founder of the Hospitality and Shelter Houses.

Marilyn Mahlberg, born November 15, 1928, discusses her involvement in and presidency of the Bloomington League of Women Voters. She also describes the establishment of a Utilities Service Board and the acceptance of food stamps in Monroe County.

Jacqueline Means, born August 26, 1936, is the first woman to be ordained as an Episcopal priest in the United States. She discusses becoming a licensed practical nurse, her seminary education and becoming a priest. Means is very active ministering at the Indiana Women's Prison and works to establish halfway houses for women in trouble.

Martha Vicinus, born November 20, 1939, was the editor of , a member of Indiana University faculty, and an active leader in the campus women's movement. Vicinus was instrumental in establishing the Women's Studies Program for the university. She discusses her struggle with university politics concerning women faculty and equal pay for all faculty members.