Forgotten Leading Ladies of the American Theatre

<p> These eight women made remarkable contributions: Laura Keene challenged tradition in 1858 by heading her own dramatic troupe; her career was ruined by Lincoln's assassination. Mrs. John Drew a star at 7 who toured until she was 76 was the matriarch of the Barrymore dynasty. Anna Cora Mowatt eloped at 15 with a lawyer more than twice her age and went on the stage when he lost his fortune. She wrote a play <I>Fashion</I> that is still performed 140 years later. Five other women also have fascinating stories of courage and talent: Susanna Haswell Rowson Sophia Turner Charlotte Cushman Fanny Kemble and Minnie Madern Fiske.</p>