In honor of America's 250th anniversary, co-author Kate Andersen Brower explores the remarkable stories of the often-overlooked women who helped shape the nation's history. From Revolutionary-era patriots and abolitionists to suffragists, service members, and civic leaders, "We the Women" shines a light on the courage, resilience, and determination of women whose contributions transformed America, often without recognition. This conversation offers a powerful new perspective on the people and stories that helped define the American experiment.
*This Moments That Shaped America – A Nation and Independence at 250 event is part of the JES's USA 250 Event Series.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St. Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Wednesday, July 29th, 7:00-8:30PM
Admission: Week Pass for $50/each or $90 with a guest - $15/each or $25 with a guest
*If you do NOT receive an email from info@jeserie.org within 24-48 hours regarding your registration, please check your spam or junk folder. Thank you!
Combining incredible first-person anecdotes from hundreds of hours of interviews with residence staffers–most speaking publicly for the first time–with archival research and candid conversations with three former First Women and the children of four presidents, Brower tells the story of the service staff at the White House and the famous families they serve. Brower explores the close-knit relationships between the people that have helped run the White House behind the scenes and the first families, from the Kennedys to the Obamas. Brower's insight into America's first families and these staff members gives audiences a unique and unprecedented glimpse into American history.
Her latest book, The Hill: Inside the Secret World of the U.S. Capitol explores the fascinating workings of the U.S. Capitol, revealing its structure, historical significance, and the people who maintain it. The book highlights key historical figures and events, tracing the Capitol's evolution from its construction, partly by enslaved laborers, to its role in modern democracy. Brower also speaks about her second book, First Women: The Grace and Power of America’s Modern First Ladies, giving audiences a glimpse at the true modern power brokers at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue: America’s First Ladies—from Jackie Kennedy to Michelle Obama.
Truman Library Institute raved, "Kate Andersen Brower delivered an informative and engaging public program – we've heard nothing but rave reviews from our guests. In addition to delivering a superb talk about life inside the White House, Kate is wonderful to work with and a gracious guest. I highly recommend booking her for your next event."
Kate Andersen Brower is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller The Residence and First Women, also a New York Times bestseller, as well as Team Of Five, First In Line, the children’s book Exploring the White House, and Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit & Glamour of an Icon which is the first authorized biography of the star and includes never-before-seen letters and diary entries written by Elizabeth, who was the most famous actress of the 20th century. In 2026 she also co-wrote We The Women: The Hidden Heroes Who Shaped America with Norah O'Donnell where they tell the stories of the unsung women in American history. The Residence inspired a Netflix series produced by Shonda Rhimes of the same name. Kate covered the Obama administration for Bloomberg News. She is also a former CBS News staffer and Fox News producer. Kate has written for the New York Times, Vanity Fair, and the Washington Post. She lives outside of Washington, D.C., with her husband, their three young children, and their wheaten terrier.