Finding Fanny

Director Tina Spangler discovered an old print at a yard sale. After some research, she learned that it was made by one of the most prolific 19th-century lithographers for the celebrated Currier & Ives. During her time, Palmer’s images adorned more homes, schools, and businesses than that of any other artist, living or dead. Yet, her name was largely erased from history.

Interweaving Tina's personal story and persistent present-day investigation, we uncover that Fanny Palmer's story is one of grit and determination. She became a trailblazer for women's autonomy as an artist whose ground-breaking prints captured the spirit of a burgeoning nation. At the same time, Palmer’s personal challenges and triumphs give greater depth and resilience to her remarkable life