Berkshire Conference of Women Historians facts for kids

The Berkshire Conference of Women Historians is a group for women who study history. People often call it the "Little Berks." This group welcomes women historians from all areas of history. They don't just focus on the history of women or gender. The Berkshire Conference is also famous for a big meeting held every three years. This meeting is called the Berkshire Conference on the History of Women, or “Big Berks.”

Why the "Little Berks" Started

The Berkshire Conference of Women Historians began in 1930. It was started by two historians, Louise Fargo Brown and Louise Ropes Loomis. They noticed that women historians often felt left out. At the time, the history field was mostly led by men.

Many women with advanced history degrees worked at women's colleges. They didn't always feel welcome at big meetings. For example, at the American Historical Association (AHA) meetings, women felt they didn't fit in. Social events like "smokers" were not designed for them.

So, in 1929, these women decided to create their own group. They wanted a supportive place for women historians. They started holding yearly weekend get-togethers. These often took place in the Berkshire Mountains in New England.

At first, they called themselves the Lakeville History Group. In 1935, they changed the name to BCWH. This was because many meetings happened in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. By 1936, these gatherings became the organization known as the "Little Berks."

The "Big Berks" Meetings Begin

A new chapter for the organization started in 1973. This was at a conference held at Douglass College of Rutgers University. At this time, studying women's history became a recognized field. Hundreds, then thousands, of scholars and activists came together. They held a large conference focused on the history of women.

This big event became known as the Berkshire Conference on the History of Women. People often call it the "Big Berks." After holding conferences in 1973 and 1974, they decided to have them every two years. In the 1980s, they changed to every three years.

The "Big Berks" always had people from around the world. In 1993, at Vassar College, special efforts were made to include more international guests. The 2014 conference was a big step. It was the first time the "Big Berks" was held outside the United States. It took place in Toronto, Canada.

What the Berkshire Conference Does Today

The Berkshire Conference still holds yearly retreats. These events combine talking, socializing, and outdoor fun. They also help younger scholars learn and grow. The group handles important tasks, like choosing winners for their yearly book and article prizes.

The Berkshire Conference also works to support women in universities. They provide money for graduate students through fellowships. And, of course, they plan the "Big Berks" conference. This important meeting happens every three years.

Past "Big Berks" Locations

• 2017 Hofstra University
• 2014 University of Toronto
• 2011 University of Massachusetts Amherst
• 2008 University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
• 2005 Scripps College
• 2002 University of Connecticut
• 1999 University of Rochester
• 1996 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• 1993 Vassar College
• 1990 Douglass College at Rutgers University
• 1987 Wellesley College
• 1984 Smith College
• 1981 Vassar College
• 1978 Mt. Holyoke College
• 1976 Bryn Mawr College
• 1973 Douglass College at Rutgers University