"History of Her: Women Who Shaped Chicagoland"
A collaboration with the Elmhurst History Museum

Elmhurst History Museum's "History of Her: Women Who Shaped Chicagoland" exhibit will include the biographical monologues of three important Chicago area women from the region's past: Bertha Honoré Palmer (portrayed by Debbie Proska on June 20, 2026); Audrey Wagner (portrayed by Kathi Campbell on July 11, 2026); and Frances Willard. 
 
On Sat., August 8, 2026, Victoria Rebeck will portray Evanston resident Frances Willard, a renowned educator, proponent of the temperance movement and suffragette advocate. Long-time president of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, Willard was passionate in her beliefs in total abstinence from alcohol – and in women’s right to vote.
 
Rebeck's “History of Her” monologue will start at 2 p.m. and will last about 10-15 minutes including time for questions at the end. The performance will be done in costume.
 
The performance is a free, drop-in, not ticketed events at Elmhurst History Museum. Museum admission is free; however, a suggested $5 donation is gratefully accepted to help support the museum's education programs, public events, and both rotating and core exhibitions. The Elmhurst History Museum’s “History of Her: Women Who Shaped Chicagoland” exhibit will run through August 9, 2026.
 
Elmhurst History Museum is open Sunday and Tuesday to Friday, 1-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and closed Monday. The museum’s address is 120 E. Park Ave.