The Harvey Girls: Women’s Roles in Railroads, Kansas, and US History

221 N Marion Street,Florence KS 66851

25 February, 2023

Description

Dr. Michaeline Chance-Reay will present The Harvey Girls: Women’s Roles in Railroads, Kansas, and US History. Her talk will focus on the mythology of the Harvey Girl which looms large in Kansas history and across the western United States. The Fred Harvey Company, concessionaire along the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway offered young women employment opportunities as waitresses and tour guides. These women played a role in the economic and cultural history of Kansas and the American Southwest. This talk includes stories of women employed by the company as well as its founder, Fred Harvey, who lived in Leavenworth and opened his first lunchroom depot along the line in Topeka. Dr. Chance-Reay is Professor Emeritus of Women's Studies and Education at Kansas State University. Dinner will be provided by the Florence Historical Society and will be a recreation of a typical Harvey House meal. Included are: Fred Harvey Cole Slaw Relish Plate Roast Beef and Mashed Potatoes Sante Fe Asparagus (asparagus with cheese sauce) Hot Rolls Fruit and Chees Plate Warm Cobbler with Ice Cream Tea, Milk, or Coffee