The National Archive of Asunción has opened a new exhibition, running until April, dedicated to women during the Guerra Guasu. On Paraguayan Women’s Day, 24 February, the exhibition “A Jewel in the Midst of War” (Una joya en plena guerra) was inaugurated. This initiative seeks to recognise and reflect on the role of Paraguayan women in history. The exhibition uses original documents to showcase donations of jewellery and other goods for national defence. It also highlights the work women carried out and the challenges they faced during the conflict.
Patriotic contributions of Paraguayan women
The exhibition gathers records of donations, including jewellery, cash, livestock, clothing, and agricultural products. These contributions supported the army and strengthened national defence. It also features documents recognising women who provided services to the State, highlighting their economic and social roles during wartime.
The display broadens the traditional view of the Residentas. The exhibition incorporates evidence of women’s human, social, and economic participation in the conflict. Materials from the American Women’s Assembly of 24 February 1867 are included, considered one of the most significant milestones in female patriotic demonstrations.
The Golden Book: A symbol of commitment
The centrepiece of the exhibition is the Golden Book. The book was presented by Paraguayan women on 24 July 1867 to then-president Francisco Solano López. The book contains signatures and declarations of support for the national cause, showing women’s public commitment during a critical moment of the war.
Captured later by the imperial army during the taking of Piribebuy, the book is now a historical and symbolic treasure. Press materials from the period, including copies of Cabichuí, El Centinela, and Estrella, show how wartime newspapers circulated stories and engravings of women’s heroic acts.
Reflecting on women’s roles in history
“A Jewel in the Midst of War” invites visitors to reflect on how Paraguayan women lived through and confronted one of the nation’s most decisive historical episodes. The exhibition runs until April, Monday to Friday from 07:00 to 19:00. The public is invited to engage with primary sources and understand the contributions of women in Paraguay’s history.
Through this exhibition, the National Secretariat of Culture reaffirms its commitment to preserving, researching, and sharing the country’s documentary heritage.
