American women started voting nationwide after the 19th Amendment was ratified in August 1920.
A hundred years later, the State Historical Society of Iowa 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," said Susan Kloewer, administrator of the State Historical Society of Iowa. "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."
More information about the programs is below.
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
Saturday, June 27, 10:30 a.m.
Tour of Carrie Lane Chapman Catt Girlhood Home and Museum
Charles City, Iowa
Register in advance by June 22
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.
*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
The State Historical Museum of Iowa is overseen by the State Historical Society of Iowa, a division of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs. More information is available at iowaculture.gov or 515-281-5111.
The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs and its divisions – the State Historical Society of Iowa, including the State Historic Preservation Office; the Iowa Arts Council; and Produce Iowa, the state office of media production – empower Iowans to build and sustain culturally vibrant communities by connecting to the people, places and points of pride that define our state. The department promotes creativity as a catalyst for innovation, empowers Iowans to preserve history, and shares the stories of Iowa to connect past, present and future generations. http://iowaculture.gov/