Podcast Summary: Letters from an American
Episode: May 10, 2025
Host/Author: Heather Cox Richardson
Release Date: May 11, 2025
Introduction
In the May 10, 2025 episode of Letters from an American, historian Heather Cox Richardson delves into her personal history, reflecting on the profound influence of multiple maternal figures in her life. Through heartfelt storytelling, Heather honors the legacy of Sally Adams Bascom Augenstern—an extraordinary woman who shaped her worldview and approach to history and life.
Exploring Maternal Influences
Heather begins by expressing gratitude for the "more than one mother" she has had, encompassing aunts, family friends, and mentors. Among these, Sally Adams Bascom Augenstern stands out as a pivotal figure. Heather recounts their summer interactions in Maine during the 1950s, highlighting the balance of responsibility and affection that characterized their relationship.
"By my count, I've had at least eight mothers. One of the most important was Sally Adams Bascom Augenstern."
— Heather Cox Richardson [00:10]
Sally Adams Bascom Augenstern: A Life Well-Lived
Sally, referred to fondly as Mrs. A, is portrayed as a woman of sharp intellect and vibrant spirit. Heather shares anecdotes that illustrate Sally's multifaceted personality—from her competitive nature in bridge games to her meticulous gardening habits despite physical limitations.
"She was bossy, demanding, sharp as a tack, and funny and thoughtful."
— Sally Adams Bascom Augenstern [00:46]
Heather provides a biographical sketch of Sally, born on December 25, 1903, making her nearly a year older than Maine politician Millard Robinson—a fact Sally reportedly disliked. As the oldest of six siblings, Sally learned responsibility early, caring for her younger brothers and sisters.
Life Lessons Through Personal Stories
One of the most poignant stories Heather shares is when she asked Sally about the most important historical event in her lifetime. Sally humorously yet insightfully responded:
"Without the washing machine."
— Sally Adams Bascom Augenstern [01:34]
This response underscores the significance of technological advancements in everyday life, freeing time for leisure and intellectual pursuits like listening to the radio. Sally's refusal to embrace traditional motherhood roles, choosing instead a life of independence and personal fulfillment, left a lasting impression on Heather.
Resilience and Independence
Heather details Sally's resilience, from overcoming physical injuries to maintaining her zest for life. Despite destroying her knees playing tennis, Sally adapted by gardening—a task she approached with determination, often in a lawn chair due to her injury.
"She destroyed her knees playing tennis, so she would weed the garden by staggering to a lawn chair set up there."
— Heather Cox Richardson [02:17]
Sally's commitment to living life on her own terms is evident in her driving habits and social interactions. Her annual trips to Florida in a "giant old Cadillac" and her preference for being seen only in dresses with her hair pinned up and pearls on highlight her unique blend of pragmatism and elegance.
Bridging Generations
As Sally aged, she remained a dynamic presence in Heather's life, continually forming new relationships across generations. Heather observes:
"I watched her lose my grandmother's generation and then work to make friends with my mother's generation. And when they, too, died, she set out in her 80s to make friends with my generation."
— Heather Cox Richardson [03:23]
This ability to connect with different age groups provided Heather with a broader perspective on history and human relationships, reinforcing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.
Legacy and Personal Impact
Sally's legacy to Heather goes beyond material possessions. She left behind linens, a gardening coat, and family photos, but more importantly, she imparted invaluable lessons on approaching history and life with curiosity and critical thinking.
"She also left me ideas about how to approach both history and life."
— Heather Cox Richardson [03:35]
Heather acknowledges that while Sally never fulfilled her own desire to be a mother, her influence filled that role in Heather's life, demonstrating the profound impact mentors and maternal figures can have beyond conventional family structures.
Conclusion
The episode serves as a tribute to Sally Adams Bascom Augenstern and, by extension, to all the remarkable women who shape our lives without seeking traditional titles. Heather Cox Richardson weaves personal narrative with historical insight, illustrating how individual stories contribute to our understanding of the broader human experience.
"I've never met a woman more determined never to be a mother, but I'm pretty sure that plan was one of the few things at which she failed."
— Heather Cox Richardson [04:07]
Through this heartfelt reflection, Heather emphasizes the enduring influence of strong, independent women and the lessons they impart, enriching both personal growth and historical comprehension.
Production Credits
Letters from an American was written and read by Heather Cox Richardson. Produced at Soundscape Productions, Dedham, MA, with music composed by Michael Moss.