06/16/2026
Thank you to everyone who joined us for "Unstoppable: The Victoria Woodhull Story" book launch and historical program on Saturday. We were thrilled to welcome such a wonderful crowd to explore the life and legacy of one of Licking County's most remarkable women.
The afternoon began with genealogist Mary L. Shearer, who presented newly uncovered court records related to the 1846 Claflin mill fire in Homer, Ohio. Her research challenged long-standing accusations against Victoria Woodhull's father, Buck Claflin, and offered a fascinating look at how gossip, sensational newspaper accounts, and historical narratives can shape, and sometimes mislead, our understanding of the past.
Author Kate Danaher then shared how "Unstoppable: The Victoria Woodhull Story" came about, discussing the research, revisions, and collaboration that made the book possible.
Danaher read a compelling passage exploring why Susan B. Anthony sought to distance the women's suffrage movement from Woodhull. The reading offered a fascinating look at the complicated relationships and personalities behind this important movement in American history.
Finally, Isabella Anderson spoke about the demonization of Victoria Woodhull and why some historians and commentators continue to overlook her, considering her “too much” to fit neatly into traditional historical narratives.
Guests walked away with autographed copies of the book and new insights into Victoria Woodhull's remarkable life and legacy. We loved the discussion and hope to continue it again soon!
