Sarah Bell, Speaker
Development Director for the Watkins Museum of History
Madame Mayor: The First Women Mayors in Kansas
Presentation by: Sarah Bell
Did you know that for a brief time in Kansas, women leaders dominated local elections? The passage of the 1887 municipal suffrage bill allowed women to vote and stand for local elections. Women mayors were elected in several cities, and in Argonia, Mayor Susanna Salter became the first elected woman mayor in Kansas and the country. Other cities followed. This progress did not include women of color, who, despite being involved in civil and social affairs, did not have entry into elected roles. Yet, by the end of the 19th century, men again dominated the political landscape. Although short-lived, the influence of these early women civic leaders laid important groundwork. This talk weaves the chronology of women’s suffrage in the state with the stories of women elected leaders.
Contact Sarah directly about speaking at your event:
sarahkaybell@gmail.com
(636) 399-7814