Lunch and Learn – Mary Barlow: Hartford’s World War II Heroine

Join us for a virtual presentation as award-winning author Orice Jenkins discusses one heroic resident of Hartford's North End. Mary Jewel Barlow was one of only three members of the 6888th Postal Directory Battalion who died in service during World War II, and one of only four women buried in the Normandy American Cemetery. Though erased from popular memory for decades, her legacy connects directly to Hartford’s historic Clay Arsenal neighborhood and to one of Connecticut’s most prominent Black families. Genealogical research reveals Barlow not as a fictionalized figure from a movie, but as a real young woman whose sacrifice deserves recognition. This virtual event is FREE and open to the public. Get free tickets at connecticutmuseum.org to receive the Zoom link. This program series is generously supported by Camille and Gregory F. Servodidio. About the Speaker: Orice Jenkins is an independent scholar, multi-genre troubadour, and award-winning author, originally from Hartford, Connecticut. His work spans music, genealogy, and public education, focused on uncovering forgotten stories and keeping cultural traditions alive. Jenkins’ research has been featured in The Washington Post, National Parks Magazine, PBS’ Finding Your Roots, and the Journal of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society.