For more than 70 years, women worked ceaselessly to gain the right to vote. The 19th Amendment was finally adopted into the Constitution in August 1920. Wearing white clothing became symbolic of the suffragettes.

Wear White! is the fashion theme for the upcoming Walk Around Wiscasset, which runs from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27. Wiscasset joins the national initiative commemorating 100 years of women’s suffrage during August, National Women’s Suffrage Month.

Wiscasset residents, neighbors, and visitors are invited to stroll the new village sidewalks, wave to friends, and enjoy a summer evening in good company. Wearing white clothing is optional but is a gesture to honor the women who struggled for more than 70 years to achieve the vote for women. The State of Maine ratified the 19th Amendment — giving full voting rights to American women — in November 1919, and it was adopted as part of the U.S. Constitution in August 1920.

white-suits-suffrage:
In this 1918 photo, suffragettes, mostly in white dresses and suits, continue to march, lobby, and advocate for the right to vote, still two years away. Photo by George Rinhart.

Other activities are planned for this outdoor event to bring attention to the new and luxurious brick sidewalks, the result of a two-year MDOT project. Look for a handmade carillon, a DJ, Sarah’s takeaway tidbits, and more. Village shops and galleries will be open during the Walk Around at the owners’ discretion.

Wiscasset’s Museum in the Streets panels are located throughout the village and are available for viewing 24/7 for self-guided walking tours (find descriptive brochures on each panel pole). They tell the story of life in the 18th and 19th centuries, as lived by Wiscasset townspeople.

Those enjoying the Walk Around are asked to wear face coverings, maintain physical distance, and not congregate in large groups.

Walk Around Wiscasset, replacing Wiscasset Art Walk during summer 2020 because of coronavirus concerns, will be held on the last Thursday of August and September, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. For more information about Walk Around Wiscasset, visit www.wiscassetartwalk.org, or contact Lucia Droby at ludroby@verizon.net.