Lunch and Learn – Mary Barlow: Hartford’s World War II Heroine at Connecticut Museum of Culture and History

The Connecticut Museum of Culture and History will host a virtual Lunch and Learn presentation exploring the life and legacy of Mary Jewel Barlow on June 9 from 12 pm to 1 pm. Presented by Orice Jenkins, the program will examine the story of the Hartford native whose service and sacrifice during World War II have only recently begun receiving broader recognition.

Barlow was one of only three members of the 6888th Postal Directory Battalion to die in service during the war and one of just four women buried in the Normandy American Cemetery. The presentation will connect her story to Hartford’s historic Clay Arsenal neighborhood and one of Connecticut’s prominent Black families while highlighting genealogical research that restores her place in history beyond fictionalized portrayals.

The event also connects to the Museum’s current exhibition, Drawn Here, which explores the migration history and culture of Hartford’s North End through graphic novels created by local students and professional artists.

This virtual event is free and open to the public. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.

For tickets and additional information, visit https://www.connecticutmuseum.org/event/lunch-and-learn-mary-barlow/. Questions may be directed to Jen Busa, Public Programs Coordinator, at jbusa@connecticutmuseum.org.