On Wednesday, March 20th, a Women’s History Month Celebration took place at the Acton Memorial Library to honor women who have played significant roles in shaping Acton’s contemporary history.
Host Ann Chang greeted a packed audience, both in-person and online, to recognize the remarkable contributions of women who have left a lasting impact on Acton. The event showcased a lineup of esteemed presenters, including Ann Chang, former State Senator Pam Resor, Nancy Tavernier, Laurie Comey, Diane Baum, Bettina Abe, Sarah Colletti, Cathy Fochtman, Wanda Null, Ann Forbes, and Janet Adachi. In her introduction, Ann Chang acknowledged that she surely forgot people. She urged people to bring names of other women who should be honored to Rebecca at the Reference Desk at the Acton Memorial Library.
The evening’s proceedings were named in remembrance of the late Kitty Kinsley, an Acton native and former fourth-grade school teacher known for her active participation in Town Meetings and her instrumental role in installing the traffic light at Central Street and Massachusetts Avenue, affectionately referred to as “Kitty’s Corner.”
Charlotte Sagoff’s significant contributions to the community were highlighted, emphasizing her efforts in environmental activism, including her role in closing W.R. Grace wells and her involvement in forming Acton Citizens for Environmental Safety. Charlotte also played a key role in establishing the Acton Food Co-Op and Acton Nursing Service.
Bea Perkins was recognized for her leadership in forming Acton’s chapter of the League of Women Voters and her advocacy for zoning and growth management. Bea’s contributions extended to various town committees, including the Planning Board, and she was a vocal supporter of introducing a Town Manager to Acton’s government structure.
Marilyn Peterson’s involvement with the League of Women Voters and her contributions to local governance, including serving on the Finance Committee, the Board of Appeals, and the Board of the Domestic Violence Service Committee, were lauded. Marilyn’s dedication to community service also led to her involvement in launching The Acton Exchange newspaper.
Amanda Bailey’s meaningful work within the disability education community, particularly her leadership of the Acton-Boxborough Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) , was highlighted. Amanda’s advocacy efforts have significantly benefited families dealing with disabilities in Massachusetts.
Vivian Kobusingye Birchall, originally from Uganda, was recognized for her multifaceted contributions to Acton, including her role as head of ActonTV and her involvement in land use planning and global health initiatives.
Susan Mitchell-Hardt’s role in revitalizing the Acton Conservation Trust and her efforts in preserving town farm and conservation land, including the Morrison Farm and Camp Acton, were commended. Susan’s contributions also extended to the establishment of Acton’s Community Preservation Committee and the establishment of Acton as a Right to Farm community.
Madeline Cruz’s advocating for renters’ rights and her involvement in housing and climate justice initiatives were acknowledged. Madeline’s work with the Town’s Human Services Committee has been instrumental in supporting vulnerable populations in Acton.
Judy Dembsey’s leadership in the Acton Garden Club and her contributions to beautifying public spaces, including the establishment of the Oval Garden in front of Town Hall, were celebrated. The Oval Garden will be rededicated on May 1 after a restoration effort.
Margaret Richter’s dedication to enhancing Acton’s library services as an Acton Memorial Library (AML) Trustee and a founder of Friends of the Acton Library led to her involvement in the AML expansions in both 1967 and the late 1990s, along with increases in many library amenities.
Barbara Nylander and Belle Choate were remembered for their passion for preserving Acton’s history, with Barbara leading efforts to save historic landmarks like Jones Tavern and the Faulkner Homestead, and Belle contributing extensively to documenting Acton’s colonial heritage, along with naming many of Acton’s streets.
Julia Stevens and Florence Foss were honored for their respective roles in local governance and healthcare. Julia’s advocacy for floodplain zoning and public health initiatives significantly impacted the town, while Florence’s efforts helped establish the Acton Nursing Service as a cornerstone of community healthcare since 1966.
Katie Green and Nancy Tavernier, both former Select Board members, were the final honorees, celebrated for their diverse contributions to Acton. Katie’s involvement in various town committees, including her advocacy for environmental initiatives and affordable housing, left a lasting legacy. Nancy’s extensive service to Acton, including her work with the League of Women Voters, the Acton Housing Authority, and the Acton Memorial Library, has had a profound and enduring impact on the community. Though she no longer lives in Acton, Nancy’s contributions will continue to resonate for years to come.
Kimberly E. B. Hurwitz is the Acton Exchange’s Beat Reporter for Acton250 and history. Acton Exchange Editors Franny Osman, Miriam Lezak, and Kim Kastens were among the many other women honored at this event. To avoid conflict of interest, AE writer Nancy Knoblock Hunton served as guest editor for this article.