Pioneer career women’s stories to be told

Much is being said and written about the career of women of today, but this is not a modern innovation. While Winner and its surrounding area, as well as many other parts of the Midwest, were being settled and developed, numerous women not only maintained their pioneer homes and reared their families, but also were engaged in remunerative work outside their homes.

Mrs. Florence Hedlund, Winner, will be writing a series of articles on pioneer career women. “It seems only fitting during this bi-centennial year that special honor be paid to those ladies who contributed so much in making this part of our land what it is today,” said Mrs. Hedlund.

There are merchants, postmistresses, (properly called postmasters today), newspaper editors, bank executives, photographers, educators, librarians, nurses, mid-wives, and the list goes on.

“Although most of them are no longer living, stories of their courage, adventurous spirit, and determination should spur us on to greater heights as we enter the third century. It is most inspiring and gratifying to visit with those still with us who have lived during the pioneer period of our area and to learn of their experiences and cherished memories,” said Mrs. Hedlund.

For the next several weeks, the Advocate will share with readers the lives of the pioneer career women of this area. “Much research has already been done, but really only the surface has been scratched,” explained Mrs. Hedlund. It is not intended that any pioneer career woman’s name or story be omitted. Suggestions and help in getting information about anyone who would qualify is being solicited and will be appreciated. If anyone knows the names of pioneer CAREER women of This area whose stories would be of interest to readers please contact Florence Hedlund, in care of the Winner Advocate.

Submitted By: Tripp Co. Historical Society
Permission granted by the Winner Advocate, article published on June 23, 1976