Willimantic, Connecticut--Altrusa International clubs helped people from Scotland to New Zealand. Literacy was the focus; these women reached out to the illiterate by highlighting the town's history at the Textile and History Museum in Willimantic.

Bev York was just totally enthusiastic for the history of this town. Everybody knew Bev within the area of the museum and the textile factory, which is just across the street in the photograph. She was just overwhelmed with the idea of being portrayed in USA WEEKEND and having a little bit of publicity. She never quit smiling the whole time.

She gave me a tour of the museum and factory, which has been partially renovated. The entire time, she was completely energized by the history of the place, and thrilled with the fact that she gets to share that much with the rest of the community, and with the rest of the country, really.

Photo Essay by Charles "Stretch" Ledford
StretchPhotography.com