‘Notable Women of Illinois History’ topic of Sunday program at Quincy Senior and Family Resource Center

QUINCY — The Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County will present a program by popular author and speaker Tom Emery at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 14, at the Quincy Senior and Family Resource Center, 639 York.

Emery is a freelance writer and historical researcher from Carlinville who has earned 15 awards from the Illinois State Historical Society. He will discuss his book “Notable Women of Illinois History,” which covers the remarkable lives of some of the most influential women throughout the history of Illinois.

An experienced speaker and public-address announcer, Emery has lectured across the region on his research. He is known for his informal presentations, which encourage audience participation.

“I came up with the concept of this book in the summer of 2017, when I thought about all of the articles I’ve done on women’s history,” Emery said in a press release. “I’m always looking to break new ground and cover topics that haven’t been covered properly. I thought I had plenty of material to work with for a book like this and that I could contribute to the stories of women’s history here in Illinois.

“I attempted to focus mainly on women who were born in the 19th century and who were born in Illinois, lived most of their life here or left an obvious imprint on the state.”

Such luminaries as Jane Addams, Mother Bickerdyke, Mary Todd Lincoln, Frances Willard and Gwendolyn Brooks are included, as well as other leading women of Illinois politics, social movements and literature. The program addresses the current interest in women’s issues and leadership.

Emery has produced byline articles in approximately 150 newspapers in his career, including many in Madison County. He has created 41 book and booklet titles, some of which will be available for sale after the discussion.

The program is free and open to the public.