x
Breaking News
More () »

East Tennessee played crucial role in Women's Suffrage

East Tennessee Women's Suffrage vote had a regional, national and global impact.

On International Women's Day, we're observing East Tennessee's role in the Women's Suffrage Movement.

On August 18, 1920, Harry T. Burn, of McMinn County, cast the deciding vote in the Tennessee legislature to ratify the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. Tennessee was the 36th state to ratify the amendment, making it the final state necessary to grant women across the country the right to vote.

This vote was the culmination of more than 100 years of women's efforts.

The woman who convinced Burns to cast the historic vote? His mother: Febb Burn.

She sent him a letter reminding him to vote in favor of suffrage - and he did.

That letter will be on display at the East Tennessee history center on March 18.

The suffrage coalition needs help funding a statue in their honor in Market Square. They still need $140,000 to complete the project.

If you are interested in learning more about East Tennessee's role in Women's Suffrage, head to the East Tennessee History Center on March 18 from 1-4 p.m. for a lecture, "The Road to Suffrage: Knoxville."

Before You Leave, Check This Out