Anne Martin: 1916 Suffrage Leader in Action

Anne Martin was a prominent figure in the womens suffrage movement in the early 20th century. This photograph, taken on October 1, 1916, captures her at a pivotal moment in the fight for womens right to vote. Martin became known for her fierce advocacy, serving as the president of the Nevada Equal Franchise Society and playing a key role in mobilizing support for women’s voting rights in her state and beyond. Her work contributed significantly to the national suffrage movement, and her efforts were instrumental in Nevada becoming the first state in the west to grant women the right to vote in 1914.

The image was created or published by the Bain News Service, a major photo agency at the time, known for documenting significant events and important figures. The photograph is part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, which is a treasure trove of historical moments captured in glass negatives. This specific photograph exemplifies the determined spirit and leadership of women like Martin during a time when their voices were often overlooked. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and advancements made in the pursuit of gender equality, specifically in the context of voting rights.