"Well behaved women rarely make history."
Laurel Thatcher Ulrich



This site is devoted to living history for women -- all time periods and all social classes. Whether you have a solo historic impression to present or a lady who has tired of tramping through all-male military camps, trying to find a way to fit in, we offer help, event schedules, and contacts for you to present yourself as you wish to appear.

While most women throughout history chose to remain within the "feminine sphere" of hearth and home, many were independent -- either forced by hardship and desperation or simply in defiance of society's conventions. Women could work in respectable jobs such as teaching, sewing, going into "service" to care for the homes of the wealthy. and taking in laundry. They could compete with men for factory jobs in the increasingly industrial nation. Then there was that most infamous and ancient profession. The ladies of RTL provide a glimpse into those long-ago lives.

The creative force behind this group are Ellen Wilds and Barbara Jewell, both historical researchers, writers and living historians. On our own we represent women from the demure to the outrageous, and invite others to join us. From this site you can learn of upcoming events, get costuming and role ideas, and communicate with like-minded others. Use of the website is free.







Please be patient as we build the site.

  • Portrayals and Presentations
    In addition to appearing at historical events and re-enactments, teachers and museums can engage us for a small fee to augment a lesson, entertain visitors, and share our love of history with young and old.

    Our journal section contains fictional writings from the perspective of our characters. The best way to learn about our characters is from their own words in diaries, letters, short messages and other documents.

  • Services
    Links to other sites, including a marketplace of reputable sutlers and our own prop shop, and the benefits of joining RTL.

  • Resources
    Access our pattern library, video library, history tutoring, the Little Dames School and other research materials.

  • The Living History Rescue Course is taught by Ellen Wilds, a certified Red Cross instructor. Covering CPR and first aid, Red Cross training is now available in your venue in your century.

  • Event Schedule
    Not just where RTL will appear, but links to other events.
Return to RTL Home Page
Throughout the site the RTL logo
will return you to this page.




Copyright © 2006 Ellen Wilds and Barbara Jewell, all rights reserved. Return to Webmouse Publications Index