Podcast Summary: “Paul Harvey - Sarah Hale”
Harold's Old Time Radio
Release Date: January 31, 2025

Introduction

In the January 31, 2025 episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio," titled "Paul Harvey - Sarah Hale," host Harolds Old Time Radio delves into the inspiring life and legacy of Sarah Hale. This episode transports listeners back to the early 19th century, highlighting Hale's groundbreaking contributions to education, literature, journalism, and women's rights. Through engaging storytelling and insightful commentary, the podcast celebrates Hale's role in shaping a young nation and advocating for societal reforms.

Early Life and Education

Sarah Hale's journey began in a time when women were considered third-class citizens, with societal expectations limiting their roles to decorative ornaments or household duties. Defying these norms, Hale pursued education passionately. As narrated at [01:10], "In 1806, when higher education for women was often looked upon as ludicrous, Sarah started her own private school for girls. No sewing or social graces. Sarah's school taught reading, writing." Beginning this academic endeavor at the tender age of 18, Hale demonstrated early on her commitment to empowering women through education.

Career and Literary Success

Tragedy struck when Hale's husband, David Hale, passed away within a decade of their marriage. Unfazed, Sarah persevered, channeling her resilience into literary pursuits. At [02:15], the narrator highlights, "In 1827, when women were supposed to be decorative ornaments, which Sarah certainly could have been, or a household drudge, which, widowed with five children, she could have become, Sarah completed and published a book in two volumes entitled Northwood. It became a best seller in America and in Europe." This success not only established Hale as a prominent author but also paved the way for her influential role in publishing.

Editor of Ladies Magazine

Sarah Hale's literary achievements caught the attention of John Loris Blake, a Boston publisher eager to launch a women's magazine. As noted at [03:25], "After reading Northwood, Blake sought out Sarah to become the magazine's editor in chief. And thus did Sarah Hale become the very first woman editor in the new world." Her position as editor allowed Hale to merge her publication, Ladies Magazine, with Louis Godey's Ladies Book, further cementing her authority on topics pertaining to the American home and women's roles.

Advocacy and Activism

Sarah Hale was not merely a literary figure; she was a staunch advocate for women's rights and social reforms. The podcast outlines several of her key initiatives:

• Founding the Seamen's Aid Society: At [04:40], it's mentioned, "It was Sarah Hale who founded the Seamen's Aid Society, an organization assisting destitute seamen and their families." This initiative showcased her compassion and commitment to community welfare.

• Co-founding Vassar College: Hale's dedication to women's education is further emphasized, "It was Sarah Hale who co-founded Vassar College." This institution became a beacon of higher education for women, aligning with Hale's lifelong mission.

• Establishing Day Nursery Schools: Recognizing the challenges faced by working mothers, Hale organized the first day nursery school, providing much-needed support and enabling women to pursue careers and education.

• Encouraging Elizabeth Blackwell: Hale played a pivotal role in mentoring Elizabeth Blackwell, encouraging her to become the first woman in the United States to earn a medical degree.

• Preserving Historic Mount Vernon: Through her influential editorials, Hale successfully advocated for the preservation of Mount Vernon, preventing its demolition and ensuring its legacy.

• Suggesting the Invention of the Washing Machine: In a forward-thinking editorial at [05:50], Hale proposed the invention of a washing machine to alleviate the laborious tasks of housewives. Her suggestions materialized swiftly, demonstrating her ability to foresee and influence societal needs.

Legacy and Influence

Sarah Hale's impact extended beyond her immediate efforts, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Her literary work, especially the beloved Poems for Our Children, introduced enduring verses like:

"Mary had a little lamb.
Its fleece was white as snow
And everywhere that Mary went,
Her lamb was sure to go."

These lines have delighted children for over a century and a half, ensuring Hale's influence persists in American culture.

Moreover, Hale's most renowned achievement was her successful campaign to declare Thanksgiving Day a national holiday. As emphasized at [07:30], "She pushed and cajoled and prodded and demanded that President Lincoln, despite a nation divided, proclaim Thanksgiving Day. Thanksgiving Day. But so she did, and so he did." This collaboration between Hale and President Lincoln not only unified a grieving nation but also established a cherished American tradition.

Conclusion

Sarah Hale's life story, as portrayed in this episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio," is a testament to resilience, intellect, and unwavering advocacy. From pioneering women's education to influencing national holidays, Hale's multifaceted contributions have left an indelible mark on American society. Her ability to challenge societal norms and effect meaningful change serves as an enduring inspiration for generations to come.

Notable Quotes

• On Starting Her School:
  "In 1806, when higher education for women was often looked upon as ludicrous, Sarah started her own private school for girls."
  [01:10]

• On Publishing Northwood:
  "Sarah completed and published a book in two volumes entitled Northwood. It became a best seller in America and in Europe."
  [02:15]

• On Becoming Editor in Chief:
  "After reading Northwood, Blake sought out Sarah to become the magazine's editor in chief. And thus did Sarah Hale become the very first woman editor in the new world."
  [03:25]

• On Encouraging Elizabeth Blackwell:
  "It was Sarah Hale who personally encouraged Elizabeth Blackwell to become the first woman in United States history, the first woman to earn a medical degree."
  [05:10]

• On Declaring Thanksgiving:
  "She pushed and cajoled and prodded and demanded that President Lincoln, despite a nation divided, proclaim Thanksgiving Day. Thanksgiving Day. But so she did, and so he did."
  [07:30]

Final Thoughts

For listeners unfamiliar with Sarah Hale, this episode serves as a comprehensive introduction to a woman whose determination and vision significantly shaped American culture and societal structures. "Paul Harvey - Sarah Hale" not only narrates her accomplishments but also underscores the enduring relevance of her advocacy for education, women's rights, and national unity.