Women and Colorado Statehood

Post by Doris McCraw

aka Angela Raines

Image (C) Doris McCraw

Not only is America celebrating 250 years, and Colorado is celebrating 150 years. Colorado's journey began in 1858-59. Most of what we hear about that time is the men who pushed the idea. However, there were also women involved. This post is about one of those women.

Dr. Alida Avery left her position as a physician and professor at Vassar College to move to Colorado in 1874. Once here, she was involved in the Colorado and National suffrage movement, traveling and speaking on behalf of women. She was also an early proponent of women's participation in the medical association, requesting membership within two years of her arrival.

In February of 1876, the Denver Daily Times had the following article:

February 14, 1876
Denver Daily Times

While women did not gain the right to vote in Colorado's original constitution, they succeeded in securing the right to vote in local school elections and to place the question of suffrage on the ballot in 1877.

Until next time

Stay safe - Doris

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