Lez Keep It Real

This week’s Notable Lesbian is:

Charlotte Saunders Cushman
July 23, 1816 - February 18, 1876

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Charlotte was encouraged by her mother to take up singing and after attempting opera unsuccessfully, she tried acting, making her stage debut in 1836 in New Orleans. She went on to become one of the greatest actresses of her day, successful at home as well as on the London stage. Her repertoire encompassed a wide range of parts, including male roles such as Romeo. A commanding presence both on and offstage, Cushman used her fortune and fame to champion the work of other women artists, among them her lover Emma Stebbins.

Interesting tid bit:

Charlotte was not attractive physically, in the traditional sense. She had been a tomboy during her early years, was strong, confident, and although not large she was of a robust build. It was, then, her wit and energy that captivated her audiences. While establishing herself as an actress, Charlotte also did some creative writing. She wrote poetry, short stories and the novel, The Half Sisters, published in 1848. In 1915 she was elected to the New York University Hall of Fame.

“To try to be better is to be better.” ~ Charlotte Cushman

If you have a suggestion for a Notable Lesbian, e-mail me at lyndsey.darcangelo@451press.net or use the contact form above and I’ll highlight her in an upcoming post.

notable lesbian, charlotte saunders cushman, emma stebbins, the half sisters, new york university