Lola Van Wagenen: From History To Activism | Facts & Life Story
Who is Lola van Wagenen, and why does her story continue to resonate across decades?
Lola van Wagenen's life is a testament to the power of personal conviction, weaving together threads of history, activism, and personal resilience into a compelling narrative.
Born on December 19, 1938, in Provo, Utah, USA, Lola van Wagenen is an American historian, consumer activist, environmentalist, and producer. Her journey, marked by both personal triumphs and challenges, offers a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of American society. Raised in a Mormon family, she developed a strong sense of social consciousness, advocating for environmental causes, energy conservation, and women's rights. This commitment to making a difference has been a consistent theme throughout her life, shaping her career and personal endeavors. She has served on numerous national organizations and committees that work on behalf of women, children, history, and the environment, including roles as a commissioner for the United Nations International Year of the Child, a board member for the U.S. Committee for UNICEF, and a board member for the National Audubon Society. Her life is a reflection of her wide-ranging interests and her dedication to improving the world around her.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lola Jean van Wagenen |
| Date of Birth | December 19, 1938 |
| Place of Birth | Provo, Utah, USA |
| Known For | Historian, Consumer Activist, Environmentalist, Producer |
| Education | Doctorate in American History from New York University |
| Spouse(s) | Robert Redford (divorced), George Burrill (married) |
| Children | Scott Anthony Redford (deceased), Shauna Jean Redford, James Redford (deceased), Amy Hart Redford |
| Career Highlights | Cofounded Consumer Action Now (1970), Cofounded Clio Visualizing History, Inc. (1995), Producer of "The State of Marriage" (2015), "American Experience" (1988), and "The Mike Douglas Show" (1961). |
| Activism | Advocate for environmental causes, energy conservation, and women's rights. Served on numerous boards and committees for the UN, UNICEF, and the National Audubon Society. |
| Personal Life | Born into a Mormon family. Married Robert Redford in 1958 and divorced after 27 years. Remarried to George Burrill in 2002. |
| Current Status | Actively involved in historical research, environmental causes, and advocacy for women's rights. |
| Reference Website | Britannica |
Lola's life took a significant turn when she married Robert Redford in 1958. The couple, who exchanged vows in Las Vegas, and later in a formal Mormon ceremony at Lola's grandmother's home, embarked on a journey that would span 27 years and produce four children: Scott, Shauna, James, and Amy. Tragically, Scott died from sudden infant death syndrome at only two months old, a devastating loss that profoundly affected the family. Through her marriage to Redford, Lola became associated with the world of Hollywood, but her own passions and pursuits remained firmly rooted in her intellectual and activist endeavors.
While the marriage with Robert Redford brought public attention, Lola van Wagenen carved her own distinct path. She pursued higher education, earning a doctorate in American History from New York University. This academic achievement underscored her dedication to historical research and her deep interest in the field of women's history, which she saw as vital for understanding the past and informing the present.
In 1970, Lola co-founded Consumer Action Now (CAN), a non-profit educational organization. This initiative reflected her commitment to consumer rights and her desire to empower individuals with knowledge and resources. In 1995, she co-founded Clio Visualizing History, Inc., further demonstrating her passion for history education. These organizations provided platforms for her to promote historical awareness and encourage people to engage with the past. Through these projects, van Wagenen has championed education and advocacy, focusing on initiatives that benefit women, children, and the environment.
Lola van Wagenen's life is interwoven with a commitment to social causes. She has been a vocal advocate for causes related to the environment, energy conservation, and womens rights. Her active involvement in various organizations reflects her desire to make a positive impact on society. Her work has been recognized through her appointments to various national organizations and committees. She served as a commissioner for the United Nations International Year of the Child, a board member for the U.S. Committee for UNICEF, and a board member for the National Audubon Society.
Her marriage to Robert Redford ended in divorce, yet her life continued with new chapters. On July 17, 2002, she married George Burrill. The couple married again on July 27, 2002, in Shelburne, Vermont. Their union reflects a personal life that, while encompassing great loss and change, also demonstrates the potential for love and partnership to endure over time.
Beyond her professional and personal achievements, Lola's life reflects a resilience that has allowed her to navigate a path that has intertwined different worlds. Her story offers lessons in how to balance personal lives with professional goals, activism, and history. Through her diverse experiences, Lola van Wagenen remains an influential figure, continuing to contribute to society through her insights and her unwavering dedication to her beliefs.
The many facets of Lola van Wagenen's life, from her upbringing in Utah to her academic pursuits, her marriage to a Hollywood icon, and her work as an activist, tell a story of a life lived with purpose. Her journey is a testament to the enduring impact of a woman who has continually sought to make a difference.
