PREFACE

Homemakers rarely make it into history books. When they do, it is usually in reference to their relationship as a wife or mother, not as a person in their own right. As a result, the rest of society has paid little attention to those women who have played such a quiet, albeit pivotal role, in the lives of their families and society in general.

Most histories are written about men. While this may be their focus, they often fail to acknowledge the profound influence of the women behind or beside them. There are notable exceptions, of course, but for the most part, women have, until recent years been consigned as footnotes in the march of mankind.

That is a mistake, because it fails to recognize the outstanding contribution of women to the world around them, the enriching influences they have provided to others and their lasting legacy as wife and mother, lover, confidant and friend.

Then there are the matriarchs, the women who have had such a profound impact on the lives of their families, and who are revered and respected for their wisdom and guidance. The word matriarch (let alone the Irish Gaelic word maitriarc) is not used much any longer, but it most aptly and appropriately applies to Kathleen Murphy, the subject of this book. She is the matriarch who has presided over the lives of a well—known Prince

Edward Island family.

Kathleen Murphy never held public office, never ran a business, never won any awards and never received public recognition. And yet, in her own quiet, modest and unassuming manner, she earned the love and respect of her family and friends for whom she was a source of strength, understanding, caring and compassion and unconditional love.

To say that her children have been successful is an understatement. She must have put something in their porridge.

2 KATHLEEN MURPHY, MAITRIARC