Join us for an engaging evening of history, science, and the story of women in mycology at our next History & Hops event at the Albany Outpost! Delve into the life of Mary Elizabeth Banning, a pioneering 19th-century mycologist, and explore how the field of fungi became a rare space for women in science during a time when their contributions were often overlooked.
History & Hops at the Albany Outpost: Fungi and Feminism – The Pioneering Work of Mary Banning
March 27, 2025
6-7 pm
Off-Site
Free
Ashley Hopkins-Benton, Senior Historian and Curator of Social History, will kick off the evening with an engaging discussion about the challenges women faced in the 19th century and the fight for women’s rights during Mary Banning's lifetime. Ashley will give historical context to the barriers women overcame to pursue careers in science, despite being marginalized by institutions.
Dr. Patricia Kaishian, Curator of Mycology, will follow with a look into the life and work of Mary Banning, the "outcast" scientist whose contributions to mycology were dismissed during her lifetime. Patty will highlight Banning’s incredible achievements and will discuss how Banning’s work, while overlooked in her time, now serves as inspiration to women in the sciences.
Following the presentations, we’ll open the floor for a Q&A session—so bring your questions and join us for a lively conversation!
This fun, interactive program is free to attend. Food and drink are not included but are available for individual purchase at the venue.
Location:
Common Roots Albany Outpost
19 Quackenbush Square
Albany, NY 12207
https://commonrootsbrewing.com/
The New York State Museum is a program of the University of the State of New York
New York State Education Department