THE ROPEMAKER Mary Pattison Irwin

In the moment when Mary Pattison locked eyes with dashing American solider John Irwin across the ballroom at the St. Patrick’s Day Ball in 1784, her destiny was set. Married by the end of the gala and on a ship to the brand new nation of the USA two weeks later, she would set up the first “Rope Walk,” rope manufacturer in the small frontier town of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her foresight, skill and ambition would assure her family’s place as one of the “pillars of the city” but history would erase her name and give her husband the credit. But Olivia's guest Gloria Forouzan is giving it back!

Guest Gloria Forouzan works in the office of Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto. In addition to her other duties, she is an unofficial historian, searching out the stories of unknown residents who have left a mark on the city. Her focus is on women of the region.

Music featured in this episode provided by Killarney, Andy Reiner, Jon Souza, and Half Pelican.

Want to help us “make history”? Become a Patron or Donate here!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices