The 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment that suffragists fought for to give women the right to vote—and the Suffragist Project spearheaded here by Florida Studio Theatre—inspired us to tell the stories of some of the most remarkable women in our area’s history. From pioneers braving the early days of our frontier to business, education, science, publishing, arts and philanthropic leaders who have left us a lasting legacy, we have been fortunate to follow in their footsteps. Read about nine women who helped to shape our city and beyond.   

In This Feature:

Emma E. Booker Taught Generations and Transformed Black Education in Sarasota

To mark Amendment 19's 100th anniversary of giving women the right to vote, we're telling the stories of influential local women.

06/22/2020 By Kay Kipling

Mable Ringling Left a Legacy Beyond the Art Museum That Bears Her Name

To mark Amendment 19's 100th anniversary of giving women the right to vote, we're telling the stories of influential local women.

07/06/2020 By Kay Kipling

Dr. Eugenie Clark Dove Deep Into Science and Founded Mote Marine Laboratory

Sarasota's world-famous "Shark Lady" spent much of her life underwater, also writing and teaching about fascinating sea life.

06/29/2020 By Kay Kipling

Marie Selby Shared Her Love of the Outdoors with Generations Through Her Botanical Gardens

To mark Amendment 19's 100th anniversary of giving women the right to vote, we're telling the stories of influential local women.

07/20/2020 By Kay Kipling

Eliza Webb Helped to Establish a Thriving Business and Winter Resort in 19th-Century Sarasota

To mark Amendment 19's 100th anniversary of giving women the right to vote, we're telling the stories of influential local women.

08/10/2020 By Kay Kipling

Newspaperwoman Rose Wilson Fought for Children, Sarasota County and Women's Right to Vote

To mark Amendment 19's 100th anniversary of giving women the right to vote, we're telling the stories of influential local women.

08/03/2020 By Kay Kipling

Pioneer Mary Jane Wyatt Whitaker Braved the Wild and Helped Found a Dynasty

To mark Amendment 19's 100th anniversary of giving women the right to vote, we're telling the stories of influential local women.

07/27/2020 By Kay Kipling

Sisters Katherine and Daisy McClellan Built a Modern Neighborhood Back in 1916

To mark Amendment 19's 100th anniversary of giving women the right to vote, we're telling the stories of influential local women.

07/13/2020 By Kay Kipling