Tuesday, September 29, 2026 · 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Glass Office — 431 Main St., Stoneham, MA
Meet the woman who hoodwinked George Washington’s army! A Massachusetts. native, Deborah Sampson is the only woman known to have disguised herself as a man and serve as a soldier in the Continental Army without getting caught! In honor of the 250th -anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Deborah is coming to tell her story. Learn about Deborah’s deception strategies, victories, and trip-ups; Colonial constraints imposed on women and girls; a cave and its hidden stash; refuge in a Tory’s barn and her “Firsts” for women. She dispels myths that circulate about her life and places herself in relief against a backdrop of traditional Colonial-era culture. Peppered with surprises, this performance tells the story behind this famous, principled deception and reveals the character of the quiet rebel who pulled it off. Janet Parnes of Historical Portrayals by Lady J, Millis will portray Deborah Sampson. For ages 8-adult This program is supported by a grant from the Stoneham Cultural Council, a local agency, supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.