Iowa native Carrie Chapman Catt became a strong voice for woman’s suffrage. Even a century ago, political success required a lot of time on the phone. Photo: New York State Museum.
American women could finally vote nationwide after the 19th Amendment was ratified in August 1920.
A hundred years later, the State Historical Society is commemorating that milestone – and the Iowans who marched toward it – with a series of monthly programs and events through August.
“The ratification of the 19th Amendment was one of the most significant equal rights issues that women all across the country faced 100 years ago, including women right here in Iowa,” says Susan Kloewer, administrator of the Historical Society. “Over the next seven months, we will present a series of programs that explore the people, places and issues behind Women’s Suffrage. I ask all Iowans to join us as we honor that period of our time in the history of our state and nation.”
Seven Central Iowa events are included in the series, beginning Saturday, Feb. 22, when the award-winning suffrage film “Iron Jawed Angels” will be screened in the State Historical Museum downtown at 1:30 p.m. Details about other events in the series are listed here:
Tuesday, March 10, Noon- 1 p.m.
Lunch & Learn: Life and Legacy of Carrie Lane Chapman Catt
Featured Speaker: Karen Kedrowski from the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics at Iowa State University
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Lunch & Learn: Life and Legacy of Carrie Lane Chapman Catt
Featured Speaker: Karen Kedrowski from the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics at Iowa State University
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Thursday, April 23, 5:30-7 p.m.
History on the Rocks: Women of Woodland Cemetery Tour (18+)
Woodland Cemetery, Des Moines
Register in advance by April 3
History on the Rocks: Women of Woodland Cemetery Tour (18+)
Woodland Cemetery, Des Moines
Register in advance by April 3
Saturday, May 30, 1:30 p.m.
“Carrie Chapman Catt: Warrior for Women” Documentary Screening and Panel
Courtesy of Iowa PBS
State Historical Museum of Iowa
“Carrie Chapman Catt: Warrior for Women” Documentary Screening and Panel
Courtesy of Iowa PBS
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Tuesday, July 7, Noon-1 p.m.
Lunch & Learn: Toward a Universal Suffrage
Featured Speakers: Eric Morse, Central Iowa Community Museum; Kristen Corey, Office on the Status of Women
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Lunch & Learn: Toward a Universal Suffrage
Featured Speakers: Eric Morse, Central Iowa Community Museum; Kristen Corey, Office on the Status of Women
State Historical Museum of Iowa
*The “Toward a Universal Suffrage: African-American Women in Iowa and the Vote for All” traveling exhibition will be on display at the State Historical Museum of Iowa during June and July.
Saturday, Aug. 22, 1-3 p.m.
Women’s Suffrage Event for Families
Iowa State Capitol
More information is available at iowaculture.gov or 515-281-5111. Read about Iowa’s leadership role in the quest for voter equality in this article from the current issue of dsm magazine.
