As part of its continuing Chautauqua Speakers Series, the Sacramento History Museum is proud to present History on Stage! Three California Women Who Refused to Conform,an evening of powerful live performances on Saturday evening, August 15, 2026, at 7 p.m. During the special ticketed event, attendees will hear bold stories, daring choices, and the legacies left behind by trail-blazing women in history that include Jessie Benton Frémont, Aimée Crocker, and Fanny Seymour. Their compelling stories will be brought to life through captivating live performances by Lindsey Raines, Delta Pick Mello, and Lisa Praxel.
Short background information about each of the three women in history follows:
- Jessie Benton Frémont was not just the wife of a famous explorer, she was a brilliant writer, political strategist, and one of the most influential women of the American West. Her determination, intellect, and behind-the-scenes leadership helped shape history in ways that are only now receiving recognition.
- Aimee Crocker defied every expectation of her era, becoming a world traveler, adventurer, author, and one of America’s most fascinating social rebels. From exotic expeditions to scandalous headlines, her extraordinary life is almost too incredible to believe.
- Fanny Seymour was one of Gold Rush Sacramento’s most infamous saloon owners who made headlines across California when she was accused of murder after shooting a customer. Newspapers portrayed her as both dangerous and captivating, reflecting the era’s fascination with outspoken women who defied social expectations.
The format of the special Chautauqua evening allows attendees the opportunity to not only hear about history in a unique way, but also to have a dialogue with the fascinating women in history as well.
Chautauqua is a type of historical character performance that originated in Chautauqua, New York, and was hugely popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Sacramento History Museum is excited to offer Chautauqua to a Sacramento audience eager for new experiences.
Taking place at the Sacramento History Museum, tickets to History on Stage! Three California Women Who Refused to Conform, cost $30 for the general public or $25 for members, and are available here.
The Sacramento History Museum is located at 101 I Street at the Old Sacramento Waterfront and normal tour operations and museum opening hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the upcoming History on Stage! event, other exhibits, and special programs offered by the Sacramento History Museum, please visit www.sachistorymuseum.org.
