IN BRIEF: Women’s Suffrage in Pennsylvania, 1840–1920

By Robyn S. Young. Self-published, 2024. 150 pages. $22/paperback.

The introduction to this title offers readers a brief history of women organizing to gain the right to vote in the United States. It traces the suffrage movement to its roots in antislavery and temperance activism. The beginning of the book discusses setbacks and accomplishments of the early suffragists before homing in on voting rights history specific to Pennsylvania.

Robyn S. Young, an independent scholar, introduces readers to Quaker pastor Lucretia Mott of Philadelphia, who drew inspiration from the political power of Seneca women in the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. The book discusses other Pennsylvania Quakers central to the Seneca Falls Convention, including Jane Clothier Master Hunt and Mary Ann M’Clintock. Young served as Pennsylvania coordinator for the National Votes for Women Trail.

The book describes activist strategies, such as the 1915 tour of the Pennsylvania Justice Bell, a replica of the Liberty Bell with the words “Establish Justice” added to the original inscription “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof” (Lev. 25:10, KJV). Accompanied by a toy fox terrier who served as the movement’s mascot, suffragists drove the bell to all 67 counties in the state, beginning in Sayre in Bradford County and concluding in West Chester in Chester County.

One chapter is devoted to profiles of suffragists, including their contributions to the movement and professional and educational accomplishments, as well as counties of residence.

Readers seeking to preserve history and draw inspiration from committed activists will treasure this easy-to-read book, which can be ordered by contacting the author at [email protected].

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Sharlee DiMenichi is a staff writer for Friends Journal.