Civics 101 A midwife's early American story
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Feb 27, 2025 Arielle Lawhon, author of the historical novel "The Frozen River," sheds light on the fascinating life of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwife who assisted over a thousand births. The discussion navigates the themes of women's rights and health care in early America, revealing the challenges faced by women in the reproductive justice arena. Lawhon also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the stories of mature women and the contributions of overlooked figures in history, enriching our understanding of the past.
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Discovery of Martha Ballard
- Ariel Lawhon discovered Martha Ballard in a devotional pamphlet while waiting for a doctor's appointment.
- Inspired by Ballard's record, Lawhon decided to write a novel about her.
Fictionalizing Martha's Story
- Lawhon's novel about Martha Ballard is unique because limited research material required fictionalization.
- Ballard's diary provided an intimate view, but lacked details about relationships, requiring creative liberties.
Martha's Diary Style
- Martha Ballard's diary entries were concise, noting the date, weather, meals, births, and visits, always ending with "I have been at home."
- Lawhon, writing during COVID, resonated with this phrase, feeling a connection to Ballard's home-centered life.
