The Mothers

Of whom we know nothing.[^1]
Of whom we do not even know the birthplace.[^2]
Of whom we know almost nothing. 56 years, one town.[^3]
Of whom we know almost nothing. Outlived her husband.[^4]
Of whom we know very little. Outlived her daughter.[^5]
Of whom we know very little. Witnessed two centuries from one town.[^6]
Of whom we know even less. Daughter of Peder. Strong Dane Kvinde.[^7]
All we know of her: shaved headed mohawk woman. Lost her baby on the boat to America.[^8]
A midwife against the dangers of long dresses. Tripping hazard. Harder to run.[^9]
A way her obituary betrayed her: a name like Birdie, yet they called her Mrs. John.[^10]
Hair like her beehive state. Honey-stunning. The first time I've ever loved my nose.[^11]
Called abuser, called angel. Called, most importantly quiltmaker. Steady hands regardless.[^12]
A teacher, seeking pianohands in every crowd. Refused to hit her children. Cyclestopper.[^13]
She wants only for you to know she loves me.[^14]

Taylor Franson-Thiel