The Belles of New England

Author William Moran discussed his book The Belles of New England: The Women of the Textile Mills and the Families Whose Wealth They Wove, published by Thomas Dunne Books. The book recounts the rise and fall of the New England textile industry of the 19th century. Mr. Moran traces the experiences of the thousands of women who left New England farm towns and the Irish, Canadian and European immigrants who came to work in the textile mills. At a time when women had no political influence, these workers opposed mill owners like the Cabots and Lowells of Boston for fair wages and safer working conditions. Following his remarks, Mr. Moran answered questions from members of the audience. close