Exploring the Life of Martha Ballard

Martha Ballard was an extraordinary 18th-century midwife who delivered over a thousand babies without losing a single mother in childbirth. Her life and practices are documented in her diary, which presents a unique glimpse into a woman's life during a time when few women could read or write. This historical figure also had familial ties to notable individuals, including Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross. The podcast discusses how Ballard's story serves as the backdrop for the novel 'The Frozen River,' blending historical fiction with themes relevant to contemporary society.