Stuff You Missed in History Class Behind the Scenes Minis: Mary and Marjorie
Nov 14, 2025
Tracy reveals the unexpected advantage of limited details about Mary Golda Ross's work. Holly dives into Marjorie Merriweather Post’s journey as a serial monogamist, exploring her family dynamics and the quest for companionship. The hosts examine the cultural significance of dress styles like tear dresses and how they intertwine tradition with modern influences. They also reflect on Marjorie’s art collection and her tendency to avoid conflict in relationships, contrasting their views on marriage and wealth while encouraging support for local food banks.
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Scarcity Can Shape Narrative
- Mary Golda Ross's limited public record made researching her technical work both frustrating and freeing.
- Tracy appreciated not having to explain complex engineering details and instead focused on her life and impact.
Soft-Spoken Public Presence
- Mary Golda Ross appeared on What's My Line and spoke so softly listeners needed to lean in.
- Friends and colleagues likewise described her voice as soft and gentle, which shaped impressions of her in public appearances.
Engineering As Cultural Continuity
- Dr. Norbert Hill framed Indigenous engineering as continuous from pre-contact technologies to modern careers.
- That perspective reclaims engineering accomplishments as part of cultural continuity rather than a new import.