Underwood and Underwood, “Suffrage Rally “Wake Up America” Demonstration, April 19, 1917″. New-York Historical Society.

The New York Historical Society on CPW and 77th Street has completely transformed its fourth floor.  It’s magnificent.  I took a press Tour and was so impressed.  There’s a groundbreaking new Center for Women’s History, the first of its kind in a major US museum; a spectacular custom-designed glass gallery showing their preeminent collection of Tiffany lamps; and a re-imagined installation of historical artifacts from the Museum’s permanent collection, telling the story of American history through the lens of New York.

The project was inspired by the discovery of the unknown story of Clara Driscoll and the “Tiffany Girls” who designed and created Iconic Tiffany lamps at the turn of the 20th century, many of which are in the Society’s collection.

As a proud New Yorker, I enjoyed seeing the prominent role New York has played in the Nation’s evolution.  New York women have led the Nation in furthering women’s rights so it’s only fitting that the new Center for Women’s History is right here in Manhattan.

The exhibition focuses on the political and social contributions of First Lady Dolley Madison and other women of the era to the fledgling democracy of early America going right up to Billie Jean King, the tennis champion, and beyond.  This last is part of the fascinating “Saving Washington” exhibit.  You must see this.  I guarantee you will love it.

Miriam Silverberg is a freelance writer and president of Miriam Silverberg Associates, a boutique publicity agency in Manhattan.  She may be reached at silverbergm@mindspring.com