Remembering Ántonia

As we commemorate the centennial of My Ántonia, the Willa Cather Foundation would like to announce a special project that examines the life of the woman behind Cather’s beloved character, Ántonia Shimerda. We are pleased to introduce Anna Pavelka through the tender memories of her descendants, Paula Hempel Daharsh, Kent Pavelka, and Antonette Willa Skupa Turner. Each interview allows the viewer to gain a small, but significant look into the life of a strong, hardworking, and loving woman. A woman who endured hardships, celebrated life’s successes, and left an impression on her family that has lasted over several generations. Stay tuned as we release the series over the next week and get to know Cather’s friend Anna Pavelka.

We would like to thank Andrew Dickinson Photo and Video and the descendants of Anna Pavelka for their assistance in the creation of this project. Funding was made possible through the sponsorship of the Niobrara-Butler Chapter of the National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution National Headquarters and the Willa Cather Foundation.