1880s, Ohio. When Mary and Anna enter the Bachelor of Arts program, also known
as the "gentlemen's course" of study, at Oberlin College, they have little in
common other than the color of their skin and their passion for education.
While Mary was raised in luxury, attending presidential inaugurations with her
wealthy father, Anna is a schoolteacher, likely the daughter of her enslaved
mother's former owner, and works a second job to pay for her room and board.
But despite their differences, both women share strength, ambition, and a deep
yearning for change. If they can bridge the gaps between them, they just might
build a lasting legacy.
From its earliest days in the 1830s, Oberlin College admitted men and women,
white and Black students. Though the doors are officially open, school policy
cannot change the hearts of classmates who refuse to see a woman, and
especially a Black woman, excel. Despite constantly being forced to prove
themselves, the women triumphantly overcome every obstacle and push through
their pain. And as the world evolves around them, Mary and Anna persevere to
build a legacy of success and excellence.
Based on the real lives of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida
Gibbs Hunt, The Ladies Hall is a mirror into times of great change,
where progress and new possibilities are met with violence and resistance. But
hope always rises. And it rises still.