Exhibit: Portrait of a Lady

The Waseca County Historical Society invites the public to step into the forgotten story of a woman who defied expectations—until the world turned away. Portrait of a Lady, opening August 12 and running through October 23, shines a light on the life of Florence Rose Castor—an accomplished, university-educated woman from Waseca County whose promising career as a German teacher was cut short by wartime fear, personal injury, and the societal stigma surrounding women and mental health. Institutionalized and later abandoned by her family, Florence’s story was nearly lost to history. Until now.

This original exhibit draws from Florence’s personal scrapbook, family records, and newly uncovered artifacts to piece together a remarkable life interrupted. Visitors will explore the broader social and political forces that shaped her fate—and the lives of countless others—through a rich blend of narrative, photography, and interactive elements. In addition to Florence’s story, the exhibit includes a special section honoring the lives of other local women whose names and stories have been similarly overlooked.

Exhibit Highlights Include:

• Photographic Time Capsule: A stunning display of turn-of-the-century photographs including tintypes, cabinet cards, and cartes de visite.
• Victorian Photography Studio: A recreated 19th-century photo set, perfect for vintage-inspired selfies.
• Calling Card Station: Learn about the etiquette and symbolism of calling cards—and leave one of your own behind.

“Florence’s life reminds us of how many women were quietly erased from the historical record because they didn’t fit society’s expectations,” said Amy Danielson, Executive Director of WCHS. “Through this exhibit, we’re not only telling her story—we’re inviting our community to be part of restoring her voice.” Portrait of a Lady is more than an exhibit—it’s an act of remembrance. Visitors will have the chance to consider the ways we preserve, erase, and reclaim memory over