Catharine Beecher was one of the earliest and most prominent domestic advisors of the nineteenth century, whose work shaped the domestic science movement’s complicated–and often contradictory–views on motherhood.

Louisa Knapp Curtis was the co-founder and first editor of Ladies Home Journal, one of the most popular magazines in American history. She was a trailblazing presence in early publishing for the way she used the Journal to create an engaging and empowering community for women.

Lucy Craft Laney was a groundbreaking teacher, founder and activist who spent her life advocating for the rights of Black youth and women in the South. Her relationship with domestic subjects was complex; she taught them, but only so her students could safely gain access to rigorous academic training.

Maria Parloa was one of the most influential culinary figures of the nineteenth century. Her work as a teacher, author and entrepreneur increased the cultural and financial value of culinary instruction and served as a career model many women have since followed.