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THE FILM
Discovering Catharine reveals the extraordinary life of Catharine Waugh McCulloch (1862–1945) — an Illinois attorney, legislator, and women’s rights advocate who reshaped the law to advance equality. Through powerful storytelling and expert insight, the film explores how her advocacy transformed law and society. A feature-length expansion is now underway to share her legacy with new audiences worldwide.
THE JOURNEY
Ann McCulloch, the great-granddaughter of Catharine Waugh McCulloch, uncovered her great-grandmother's memoirs and a trove of documents at Harvard's Schlesinger Library two decades ago. Her personal journey has culminated in a well-research documentary, enriched by insights from legal scholars and women's suffrage historians who have studied McCulloch's profound impact on women's rights.
HER VOICE
Catharine Waugh McCulloch used the power of law to strengthen democracy – but it was her speeches and writings, rich with wit and conviction, that educated, mobilized and inspired change.
Through Discovering Catharine, we aim to spark meaningful conversations among educators, students, civic leaders, and the public –inspiring new generations to advance equality under the law.