Mary Sidney Society

Exploring the Mary Sidney Society: A Unique Literary Hub in Santa Fe

The Mary Sidney Society, located in beautiful Santa Fe, United States, is an intriguing educational and literary organization. This museum-like society is founded on the fascinating premise that Mary Sidney Herbert, the Countess of Pembroke, may have penned the works attributed to William Shakespeare. As a center for research and scholarship, the society promotes a deeper understanding of Mary Sidney’s life and her connection to Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets.

About the Mary Sidney Society

The Mary Sidney Society serves as a springboard for scholarly exploration. It invites researchers, historians, and literary enthusiasts to delve into the rich tapestry of Mary Sidney’s contributions to literature. This organization strives not only to illuminate Sidney’s possible authorship but also to enhance interest in the Shakespearean works themselves.

Scholarships and Publications

To support aspiring scholars, the Mary Sidney Society offers the Dana Evans Memorial Scholarship. This $1,000 scholarship is awarded to individuals dedicated to investigating Mary Sidney’s potential role as the author of Shakespeare’s works. By providing financial assistance, the society fosters the next generation of researchers who are eager to uncover the truth behind the Bard’s legacy.

Additionally, the society publishes an occasional journal titled The Cygnet, which is available to its members. This journal serves as a platform for sharing research, ideas, and findings related to Mary Sidney and her literary influence.

Annual Events and Community Engagement

The Mary Sidney Society also hosts the annual Sidney Supper, a celebratory event held in late fall. This gathering coincides with Mary Sidney’s birthday on October 27, 1561, and offers an opportunity for members and the wider community to come together. The Sidney Suppers take place at various venues across Santa Fe, fostering connection and discussion among literature lovers.

Supporting the Society

The Mary Sidney Society is a federally recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization. As such, it welcomes donations, which are 100% tax-deductible. Contributions play a crucial role in furthering the society’s mission and expanding its educational outreach.

If you are passionate about literature and intrigued by the possibility of Mary Sidney’s authorship of Shakespeare’s works, consider joining the Mary Sidney Society. Your involvement can help illuminate an essential part of literary history and celebrate the legacy of an extraordinary woman.