PARIS – The Paris Hill Historical Society continues its focus on notable women and their connections to Paris Hill with talks on Emily Bissell and Gertrude Brinckle on July 23rd and Aug. 19th. Both talks will be at 7 p.m. and will take place at the Paris Hill Historical Society building on Tremont Street, Paris Hill.

Dr. Jann H. Gilmore of Alexandria, Va., and Wayne, will talk Wednesday, July 23, on these two women, who are remembered with affection and pride by many Paris Hill residents for their accomplishments and influence on the Paris Hill community.

Gilmore will speak of their connections with cultural institutions in Wilmington, Dela., where Gertrude Brinckle worked as secretary to Howard Pyle, a well-known illustrator of the early 20th century.

Her friend, Emily Bissell, is remembered as the creator of the first American TB Christmas Seal. Both women were part of the Rehoboth Art Colony in Delaware. Gilmore has recently published a book titled “Almost Forgotten: Delaware Women Artists and Arts Patrons: 1900-1950,” in which both women are mentioned.

On Tuesday, Aug. 19, Wini Mott will present a talk on Emily Bissell and her life on Paris Hill. Mott will be showing a variety of Christmas seals as well as “first day covers” honoring her.

The Paris Hill Historical Society is open during the summer on Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m.