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Quaker Historical Plays for Kids

Members of the Religious Society of Friends, commonly known as the Quakers, have had a long and productive presence in American history. Members of the group played important roles in the abolition of slavery in the U.S. as well as in the struggle for women's suffrage. The Quakers' guiding tenets of racial tolerance, the equality of men and women and nonviolence, along with their dignity in the face of adversity, provide inspiring role models for young people. Plays written by and for young people about important Quaker figures can provide both creative opportunities for budding actors and important life lessons about getting along with others.
  1. "The Life and Times of Lucretia Coffin Mott"

    • This play, which provides parts for 10 young actors, portrays the life of 19th century feminist and abolitionist Lucretia Coffin Mott, whose sense of justice was grounded in her Quaker faith. The happily married mother of six was a strong and vocal advocate for women's voting rights and workplace rights. She opened her home as a way station on the Underground Railroad to help escaped slaves during their journeys to freedom.

    "The Story of Benjamin West"

    • This six-part play portrays the life of 18th century American portraitist Benjamin West, who grew up in a Quaker community in rural Pennsylvania and later was appointed president of the Royal Academy of Art by King George III. His artistic talents became clear in childhood, but many in the Quaker community initially questioned the appropriateness of pursuits such as painting, which they considered frivolous. With the community's later blessing, his family supported his talent, allowing him to earn an international reputation. While he happily accepted the presidency of the Royal Academy, he refused to accept the king's offer of knighthood -- the notion of taking or honoring a title ran against his Quaker faith.

    "Quakers Rock the 17th Century"

    • This 45-minute play shows the origins of the Quaker faith in England and its influence on early American history. Central characters in the play include George Fox, who founded the sect and William Penn, who became impressed with the sect's teachings and interested in promoting religious tolerance in the new North American colonies. The colony that he later founded was named, against his wishes, in his honor -- Pennsylvania.

    "The Life and Times of John Wollman, a Quaker of Colonial Times"

    • This play portrays the life of a typical Quaker settler in the American colonies during the 18th century. John Wollman struggles to reconcile his Quaker convictions with the conflicting values of his neighbors and employers. He ultimately stands up for his faith and moral beliefs by fighting for the abolition of slavery and the rights of Native Americans.

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