Hidden Woman Stage Company Presents Elizabeth Freeman

The Bidwell House Museum is excited to present the Hidden Woman Stage Company performance of Elizabeth Freeman on Sunday August 21 at 3 pm on the Museum grounds.

“MumBet” was born enslaved but did not die in slavery. After 30 years of bondage, she successfully sued and won her freedom from Colonel Ashley. She received compensation of 30£ for back pay as an enslaved person. Once she became a free woman MumBet chose the new name Elizabeth Freeman, though she continued to answer to the name of MumBet, as she was affectionately known. MumBet was recognized for having the courage to speak what was in her heart and to stand up for those who could not stand for themselves. “Anytime, anytime while I was a slave, If one minute’s freedom had been offered to me, and I had been told I must die at the end of that minute, I would have taken it–just to stand one minute on God’s airth a free woman -I would.”

Director of Hidden Woman Stage Company, Tammy Denease, was born in Columbus, Mississippi, where she spent countless hours with her great-grandmother and grandmother. Both were known storytellers and passed this gift along to their granddaughter. Tammy loves history and being able to tell others about the past. In her position of Museum Educator, she instructs children through stories of Colonial History, Health, Medicine, Slavery and Native American History. In addition, she is a Certified Interpretative Guide for Colonial-American homes. When Tammy is not teaching, she is a playwright, director, producer and a DEI Trainer for an International organization.

This performance will last approximately 60 minutes and will be held outdoors. Should the location change due to inclement weather, attendees will be notified in advance. Due to limited seating, tickets must be purchased in advance.

The Bidwell House Museum is delighted to sponsor this performance for the community. We are especially grateful for grants that have been provided from Greylock Federal Credit Union and Salisbury Bank, that assist in underwriting this event and allow us to offer a ‘pay what you want’ ticket option, ensuring that this program is accessible to all.

For those able to do so, we suggest that Bidwell Museum members contribute $15.00 and non-members contribute $20.00 (with no donations anticipated for audience members under the age of 16 years of age). Any additional donations will be much appreciated, and will allow us to continue programming of this type, going forward.

This program is sponsored by Greylock Federal Credit Union and Salisbury Bank

*Prior to this show, at noon on Sunday in Sheffield, the Sheffield Historical Society will unveil a new statue of Elizabeth Freeman which will be located on the Sheffield Green. This is a separate event from the performance but we hope you will take the time visit this new monument to Elizabeth Freeman.*