This month, a series of events organized by Lynn Walking Shoe Tours will unveil the tales of resilient women in the city who had the courage to take action for equal pay and dignity in the workforce.
Lynn Walking Shoe Tours founder Michelle Guzman said the 1860 Lynn shoemakers’ strike serves as the inspiration for the series. On Feb. 22, 1860, thousands of striking shoemakers filled Lyceum Hall in Lynn. Lynn had been known for shoemaking since the 1800s, but by 1860 many workers were dissatisfied with the low wages and working conditions in their profession.
More than 20,000 workers participated in a walkout, many of whom were women.
“Join us as we embark on a journey through time, celebrating the indomitable spirit of the human quest for justice and dignity. Together, let us learn, reflect, and inspire change,” Guzman said in a press release.
Stories from the Washington Square Residence
The first event kicks off on Feb. 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Washington Square Residence, located at 144 Broad St. Formerly known as the Lynn Home for Young Women, the Washington Square Residence has provided affordable housing and support for its tenants for more than a century. Attendees will be able to hear inspiring stories of women who have found solace and a fresh start within the nonprofit. The event is free.
The history of the Great Ladies Procession
At this event, the story behind the Great Ladies Procession of the 1860 Lynn shoemakers’ strike will be told. Those in attendance will gain an understanding of the striking shoemakers’ fight for fair wages and better working conditions. The event will be held Thursday, Feb. 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the Washington Square Residence and is free to attend.
A symbolic walk
A commemorative walk on Feb. 23 to honor the history of the strike will be held, weather permitting. The walk will begin at 6 p.m. from the Washington Square Residence and head toward Galleries at LynnArts at 25 Exchange St., with actors, residents, and members of the general public participating. A distance of 528 feet will be covered. Participants will meet at 144 Broad St. at 5:50 p.m. to gather before starting the walk.
Reenacting the Lynn shoemakers’ strike
Attendees will relive the strike with the cast of History Alive Inc. from Salem. This reenactment will take place Friday, Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at Galleries at LynnArts. The cost is $18 for the general public and $15 for seniors.
A press release states that these events are being brought to life through the efforts of prominent women in Lynn. Local artist Emmanuelle Le Gal designed the poster of this series, and Washington Square Residence Executive Director Lisa Connolly will host two presentations. LynnArts Executive Director Annette Sykes will open the galleries for the reenactment, while Amanda Masson and Guzman are curating a related exhibit at Galleries at LynnArts.
More information and a schedule of the events can be found on Lynn Walking Shoe Tours’ Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/LynnWalkingShoeTours. Tickets for these events are available on Eventbrite.
The series is supported by a grant from the Lynn Cultural Council and Mass Cultural Council.
