'Louise Blanchard Bethune: 1st Professional Woman Architect in USA' Webinar

November 13, 2023 @ 8:00pm - 9:30pm

Join New York Adventure Club as we delve into the extraordinary life and legacy of Louise Blanchard Bethune (1856 -1913), the first professional woman architect in the United States — and internationally in the modern era — who overcame countless obstacles to be recognized as one of America's most talented architects.

Led by architect and University at Buffalo scholar Kelly Hayes McAlonie (FAIA, LEED AP) — author of Louise's biography, Louise Blanchard Bethune, Every Woman Her Own Architect — our virtual exploration through the remarkable life of this ground-breaking architect will include:

• Her childhood in upstate New York, where she developed her independent spirit and interest in architecture
• A review of the path to her trailblazing career, starting with her internship for Richard Waite followed by the opening of her architectural firm in 1881
• A description of her architectural projects and the emergence of the architectural profession from craft to profession during this era
• The story of Louise’s historic admission to the Western Association of Architects (WAA) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA)
• Her professional, and personal, partnership with Robert Bethune
• The reason why Louise chose to not participate in the design competition for the 1893 Columbian Exposition Woman’s Building
• Louise’s attitude towards women’s emancipation and a description of her friends and pastimes
• Newly discovered facts about Louise, which have been unique to Kelly’s research

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A session with Kelly — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!

Event Details