Rebel Women 3 of 3
The 'Rebel Women' mural recognizes Kansas women who contributed to the statewide and national campaign for women's voting rights. This public art piece intends to encourage reflection on Kansas history, inform people about notable Kansas figures, and promote these values to future generations.
Mary J. Dillard (1874-1954- Lawrence) Mary Jane attended the racially segregated Chapel School. As the only Black student in her graduating class at Lawrence High School in 1892, she delivered a speech praising the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union (published in the Atchison Blade). As an educator, she taught and encouraged young Langston Hughes at Pinckney School.
Jane L. Brooks (1867-1945- Wichita) After serving as the Kansas Equal Suffrage Association (KESA) president from 1917-1918, Jane was elected chair of the new National League of Women Voters in 1919 and founded the nation’s first local and state League in Kansas. She is honored in the Plaza of Heroines at Wichita State University. Brooks is remembered as a formidable lady who would make a success of whatever she did.
Lucy B. Johnston (1846-1937- Topeka) Lucy worked on the Library Extension Committee of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs and was also responsible for expanding the Kansas Traveling Library’s collection. During her presidency of KESA, she led efforts toward the successful 1912 ratification of the Equal Suffrage Amendment in Kansas. Her Kansas chapter covering 1900-1920 appears in History of Woman Suffrage (Vol. 6).
Seated: Minnie J. Grinstead (1869-1925- Larned/Liberal) Minnie earned a lifetime teaching certificate from Emporia State University. In 1918, she became the first woman elected to the Kansas House of Representatives and proudly presented the joint resolution to ratify the 19th Amendment on June 16, 1919. Known as a respected orator, she seconded the nomination of Calvin Coolidge for president at the 1924 Republican National Convention.
The mural's concept originated from the Suffrage Memorial Mural Committee, which collaborated with the League of Women Voters of Kansas, the American Association of University Women, and the Kansas Capitol Preservation Committee. Given that Kansas was The mural holds substantial significance as the first state in the nation to advocate for full women's suffrage. The mural is located on the first floor, directly opposite the cage elevator. You are invited to visit and appreciate this exquisite artwork.