Sharlot Mabridth Hall (1870-1943)

Known as the Little Lady of the Governor’s Mansion, Hall was a poet, activist, politician, and Arizona’s first territorial historian. One of the West’s most remarkable women, she was in love with the state of Arizona and, if not for her efforts, much of the state’s history may have been lost. Beginning in 1927, she worked on the restoration of the first Territorial Governor’s residence and offices, opening it as a museum in 1928. And, to the museum, she contributed her impressive personal collection of artifacts and historical documents.

Born and raised in Prescott, Arizona, Jody Drake is a playwright and actor, having written and produced 22 historical plays, developed and trained a dozen first-person presenters, and portrayed the historical figure of Sharlot Hall throughout the western United States.  An Arizona Culture Keeper, a Governor’s Arts Award nominee, and a Soroptimist Woman of Distinction, Drake is the Founding Director of the Blue Rose Heritage and Culture Center in Prescott Valley.  She is honored to have performed for Sandra Day O’Connor, Janet Napolitano, Jane Hull, and Janice Brewer.