A Tallahassee author has written the tale of the woman who ruled over the Goodwood mansion from the early through mid-1900s. The Goodwood Museum is hosting a book signing event Wednesday evening. It will include an exhibit of the protagonist’s clothing and other memorabilia.
Margaret Wilson was a humble department store clerk in downtown Tallahassee when a powerful state senator named William Hodges discovered her and made her his bride. Writer Donna Meredith, whose new book "Margaret: the Rose of Goodwood" tells the story, explained what happened next.
"His name was William Cabot Hodges and he became well known because he passed legislation to help middle class people own and retain their homes. And she entertained supreme court justices and governors and visiting heads-of-state at Goodwood while they were married."
But she said the marriage quickly soured as Hodges was a cruel man. The marriage was short-lived, however, as Hodges died and Margaret quickly began a relationship - and soon married - a dashing young aviator based at Dale Mabry Field. Author Donna Meredith will be at Goodwood Wednesday evening between 5 and 7 p.m. to sign copies of her book.
“The other thing they’re going to do at the book signing is they’re opening up an exhibit of Margaret’s dresses and textiles. They’ll all be on display in the first floor of the mansion. And they are something to behold!”
Reviving memories of a time when Margaret Wilson Hodges Hood was among the city’s best-known, and most influential women.
