I’m Edwina - A Memoir of a Childhood in Jamaica Plain: 1900-1920

Wrap yourself up in the warm memories of Edwina, a precocious and delightful girl who lived in Jamaica Plain in the early 1900s. Edwina’s memoirs, tell the stories of growing up the child of a single, working mother who never let her daughter know how hard life really was. This unique and fun presentation by Jill Hofstra, Edwina’s granddaughter, and by Edwina’s great-great granddaughters, will have you step back over 100 years for an inside look into the sites, neighborhoods, and neighbors of Jamaica Plain. You will be introduced to the diverse cast of characters that populated Edwina’s world through her mother’s business and her homes on Centre Street and Paul Gore Street. Threaded with life’s lessons and an understanding look at human nature, I’m Edwina, is an unforgettable book that leaves some unanswered questions, and a lot of room for speculation and reflection. Perhaps, Edwina’s story will spark forgotten family history, a memory, and an inspiration for you, as well. Don’t miss this adventurous afternoon and peek into Jamaica Plain history. I'm Edwina is an update of the book "Edwina", which was published in 2005. The revised book will be available the end of October. Jill Hofstra, Edwina’s granddaughter, retired from a career as a marketing and sales executive and is currently a substitute teacher and volunteer in child welfare services in Tampa, Florida. Her work along with her time spent with nine beautiful grandchildren, keeps her totally immersed in the role of mentoring children. Bringing Edwina’s Jamaica Plain childhood stories to life for her grandchildren and the generations ahead and has been a truly enlightening and fulfilling experience. This talk is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.