She tours in one-woman show about 19th-century trailblazer

Sally Matson of Andover has performed her Susan B. Anthony production in 13 states since launching it about six years ago.

After moving to Massachusetts about 10 years ago, actress and educator Sally Matson of Andover began working at the American Textile History Museum in Lowell. Inspired by an interest in the mill girls and 19th-century history, she decided to turn her dream of performing a one-woman play into reality.

"I made a list of people [to perform], and Susan B. Anthony came out on top," Matson said. "She's a remarkable woman that few people know much about."

Anthony, who lived from 1820 to 1906, was an activist who fought for women's rights and suffrage, temperance, and abolition. She traveled across the country many times over a half-century, using her intellect and wit to attempt to influence legislators.

Although Anthony had her share of critics, she also had several well-known and respected friends including Frederick Douglass, William Lloyd Garrison, Clara Barton, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Amelia Bloomer, Lucy Stone, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

Matson has incorporated Anthony's speeches, letters, and diary entries into her show, which encompasses the Underground Railroad; the Civil War; the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments; and her arrest and subsequent trial for voting illegally in Rochester, N.Y., in 1872. Since Matson launched her show six years ago, she has traveled to 13 states, putting on about 35 performances a year.

"This is a painless way to learn history, but also a good lesson in issues that are still relevant today," Matson said. "After understanding the enormous struggle [for women's suffrage], every one of us should really think about who will do the best job for our country and then go out and vote."

Matson will present "Susan B. Anthony - the Invincible!" at the Nashua Public Library at 7 p.m. on Oct. 16. To learn more, visit susanbanthonytheinvincible.com.

CINDY CANTRELL