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Alice Paul Institute
Every woman who ever cast her ballot has Alice Paul to thank for it. Alice Paul, who turned the political establishment on its ear, lived in South Jersey and her landmark home is the site of educational programs, lobbying efforts and tours and other activities.
She was the definitive “Jersey Girl” -- smart, take charge and goal-oriented. And by achieving her goals, Alice Paul made it possible for generations of women to vote, to be taken seriously and to achieve their life goals.
Throughout her career, Alice often returned to her family homestead Paulsdale, which now serves as the headquarters for some groundbreaking programs and activities to empower, encourage and educate women.
During your visit, you’ll find a simple Quaker farmhouse restored to its 1885 appearance – that’s the year Alice was born. Listed as a National Historic Landmark, Paulsdale sits amid 6 ½ acres of rural farmland and still retains the peaceful atmosphere that offered a quiet refuge for Alice at various times throughout her career.
From March through November, you can drop by Paulsdale for a tour during their Open House programs which are usually held twice a month. You can check their website for exact dates. Or you can round up a group of friends a book a private tour of the house and grounds and learn about the many activities led by the Alice Paul Institute which is headquartered here.
The list of special events and programs is pretty staggering. Activities include everything from career workshops for girls, hands-on history summer camps, girls’ overnight leadership academies, films, writing workshops . . . the list goes on and on. And as API headquarters, there are also opportunities for research on women’s history.
BRING THE FAMILY
You would need two calendars for all the events, activities and programs at Paulsdale. Films, leadership activities, even a meeting with "Alice" herself -- there are dozens of lively activities for boys and girls, young and old.
COME PREPARED
During your tour, you'll explore Paulsdale's farmland so dress for the weather and wear shoes that you don't mind getting a little dirty.
WHO KNEW
Alice Paul, whose life was chronicled in the HBO special "Iron Jawed Angels," held multiple degrees including a B.A., an M.A., a Ph.D. and three law degrees, almost unheard of for a woman born in 1885.
VOLUNTEER
The Alice Paul Institute loves volunteers -- they provide flexible schedules, invite you to special events, and offer lots of opportunities for anyone over the age of 18 -- male or female -- to pitch in and help. API also has internships available. For information, log onto: www.alicepaul.org/volunteer.htm.
SUPPORT
Planned gifts can help you protect your assets while enabling the API to continue their work. Checks are always welcome, of course. And becoming a member also helps support API's work. They also have a wish list of items and equipment (large and small) that will help them preserve the site and continue Alice Paul's efforts to empower women. Check the list on-line at www.alicepaul.org/donate.htm.
TAKE PUBLIC TRANSIT
Ride NJ Transit Bus 317 or 407 to Rt. 38 & Mount Laurel Road. Walk three blocks on Mount Laurel Road and turn left onto Hooten Road. Walk three more blocks to the Institute. Distance is approximately half a mile.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Paulsdale is a National Historic Landmark, so whether you tour on your own or with a group, please don't litter or snag "souvenirs."
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