Iconic Conversations: Cheryl Eichar Jett, Aprons Away: Women’s Work on Route 66

Join us each month for a thought-provoking speaker series that brings St. Louis history to life. Gateway Arch National Park and Jefferson National Parks Association are proud to host compelling talks by local authors and other knowledgeable guests who will explore a variety of topics relevant to the St. Louis region. You might learn about our city’s early beginnings, its architecture, our prominent leaders, the rise of the Gateway Arch, our civil rights struggles, and the best things to do around town. Book discussions will be followed by an author signing opportunity. 

All programs are free and no reservations are needed. They will be held at 2:00 p.m. on the second Sunday of the month in the rotunda of the historic Old Courthouse (11 N. 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102). The building is fully accessible, and a sign language interpreter will be on hand for each presentation. 

We’ve all heard of Route 66, but did you ever stop to think of all the women who worked along the 2,448-mile length of the most famous highway in the world? They pumped gas, ran for office, painted murals, joined the military, reported news, and designed buildings, theme parks, rockets, and toys. Just in time for this year’s 100th anniversary of the iconic Mother Road, author Cheryl Eichar Jett will examine the myriad roles women played along Route 66.

Cheryl is an award-winning author and playwright specializing in this unique niche of women’s history. Her new book just debuted this spring.