Meet Louise Whitfield: 'Most trusted confidante' of Andrew Carnegie

Little-known, Louise Whitfield was influential to Andrew Carnegie's philanthropy, his ' most trusted confidante' and eventually, his wife.

Louise Whitfield's contribution to the world-wide Carnegie legacy is little-known, and her story remains largely untold. However, Andrew Carnegie’s name is internationally known for his contributions to libraries, education, peace, sport and more.

Louise's own life documents changes in the development of America, friendship with a future US President, civil war, expectations of women.

Her meeting with Andrew, the boy who came from poverty to became the US Steel King changes both their lives. The rocky road of Louise's friendship, engagements and marriage to Andrew, his 'most trusted confidante', is one to marvel at.

This one-woman theatrical show, researched, written and performed by Irene Lofthouse shines a light on Louise’s pivotal role as a driving force behind Carnegie’s philanthropic vision, offering audiences a fresh and inspiring perspective on the woman behind the legacy.

The first-ever theatre show about Louise premiered at Andrew’s birthplace of Dunfermline was in front of some of their great-grandchildren.

'I laughed, I cried, I wanted to get up and applaud halfway through. What a fantastic performance.' Carnegie Library, Dunfermline

‘This is the first performance of Louise’s life that we know of. Thank you so much for it.’ Carnegie family members

Irene specialises in uncovering and animating hidden and overlooked stories, weaving the past into the present with vivid storytelling and historical insight and is presenting Meet Louise Whitfield as part of Clitheroe Library's celebration of the Carnegie legacy.

Irene's a writer of over thirty plays, two children’s story collections, a wide range of creative content for film, educational resources, and site-specific narratives. Her work spans multiple platforms including theatre, film, television, radio, podcasts, and video. She’s renowned for her captivating touring one-woman shows (Edinburgh Fringe, Art & Literature Festivals across UK) where she brings a multitude of characters to life.

See & listen to her storytelling:

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Tickets are £10 for all ages and there are no refunds

Suitable for over 14s

The performance lasts about 45 minutes followed by a Q&A

Images:

Main: credit Keighley Library

Irene as Louise: Credit Cath Muldowney

Louise in Carnegie Birthplace: Credit Irene Lofthouse

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Host or Publisher Irene Lofthouse