Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the voices, visionaries, and trailblazers who shaped our shoreline community. Old Saybrook’s history is rich not only in maritime tradition and architecture, but in the women who helped shape education, literature, public service, the arts, and entrepreneurship on both local and national levels.
Lady Alice Fenwick: A Colonial Contributor
One of the earliest women connected to Old Saybrook’s history was Lady Alice Fenwick, the wife of George Fenwick, an early leader in the Saybrook colony. Though the colony’s founding is often told through the actions of its male settlers, Lady Fenwick played a vital role in the survival and daily life of the early settlement. Known informally as “Lady Fenwick” due to her first marriage to the son of an English baron, Alice tended gardens of fruit trees and helped gather food — including hunting — for the fledgling community. Her work contributed to the colony’s resilience in its earliest years. She died in 1648 due to complications from childbirth and was later reinterred at Cypress Cemetery on Saybrook Point, where her grave can still be visited today. The Borough of Fenwick, now part of Old Saybrook, bears her family’s name in recognition of their contributions to the town’s early history.
The Heart House & The Six Remarkable Daughters
The historic Heart House in Old Saybrook is remembered not only for its architecture, but for the extraordinary women it nurtured. The home was associated with the family of Miss James and became known for the accomplishments of six prominent daughters whose lives reflected intellect, service, and cultural impact.
Those six women include:
- Elizabeth Greenfield James – Known locally as Miss James, she became the first Black female pharmacist in the United States, breaking barriers in both race and gender.
- Ann Petry – Niece of Miss James and the first Black woman to sell over one million copies of a book with her novel The Street, Petry’s literary achievements continue to inspire.
- Edith Mary James – An educator and advocate for social welfare, Edith focused her life on strengthening community systems and improving opportunities for others.
- Aurelia James – A dedicated musician and teacher, Aurelia enriched cultural life and arts education in the region.
- Jane James – Known for her deep civic involvement, Jane led initiatives that helped make Old Saybrook a stronger, more connected place.
- Marjorie James – A leader in her own right, Marjorie continued the family’s legacy through her contributions to local civic and educational efforts.
Together, these six women represent a legacy of scholarship, perseverance, creativity, and public service. The Heart House stands as a symbol of what can grow from a home that values education, ambition, and resilience.
Katharine Hepburn: A Shoreline Icon
Few names are as synonymous with Old Saybrook as Katharine Hepburn. With four Academy Awards for Best Actress, more than any performer in history, Hepburn redefined Hollywood’s leading lady with portrayals of strong, independent women.
Her mother, Katharine Houghton Hepburn, was a leading voice in the fight for women’s suffrage and helped lay the groundwork for what would become Planned Parenthood in Connecticut. Their family’s legacy reflects a blend of artistry, independence, and advocacy.
Today, Hepburn’s spirit lives on at The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, affectionately known as “The Kate,” just up the street from Saybrook Point.
A Modern Chapter: Mrs. Mary Tagliatela
Women’s history in Old Saybrook is still being written.
As co-founder and opening force behind Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, Mrs. Tagliatela helped bring life back to one of the shoreline’s most celebrated destinations. Her vision transformed a historic property into a vibrant center for hospitality, events, and community engagement, creating jobs and welcoming visitors from around the world.
Her role reflected the same determination and forward-thinking spirit embodied by the women who came before her.
Trailblazers on the Water: Marina Leadership
Women’s leadership in Old Saybrook isn’t just found in history books; it thrives every day on the waterfront. 
At Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, Kate Mosley, CMM, serves as Director of Marina Operations, leading one of Connecticut’s premier marinas with expertise, care, and deep maritime knowledge. She has worked at marinas since she was a teen and rose through the ranks working alongside her mother.
Before Kate took the helm, her mother Abbie McAllister served as the marina’s manager, guiding operations with the same dedication and commitment to excellence. Together, they form a pioneering mother-daughter legacy in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Under Kate’s leadership, the marina continues its long tradition of environmental stewardship and guest-focused service; these values that have helped earn accolades and distinction in the boating community.
A Legacy That Continues
From the six accomplished daughters of the Heart House to Hollywood legends, authors, pharmacists, diplomats, marina leaders, and entrepreneurs, Old Saybrook’s history is undeniably shaped by women of courage and conviction.
This Women’s History Month, we honor their stories and celebrate the women who continue to shape our shoreline community every day.
