Newspaper Articles

Women's Rights

Arrested. Susan B. Anthony and fourteen other girls who voted at the recent election at Rochester, N. Y., and the two Inspectors of election, who received their votes, were each held to bail last Thursday, in the sum of $500, to appear for trial in the District Court. ~ Newton Free Press, Jasper County, Iowa, January 1, 1873.


A State Ruled by Women

Among the Holland possessions there is a remarkable little State which, in its constitution and the original customs of its inhabitants, surpasses the boldest dreams of American emancipationist ladies. - Upon the island of Java, between the cities of Bavaria and Sunarang, lies the little kingdom of Bantam. A though tributary to Holland, it is an independent State, politically without importance, yet happy, rich, and since time immemorial governed and defended by women. The sovereign is, indeed, a man, but all the rest of the Government belongs to the fair sex. The King is entirely dependent upon his State Council, composed of three women. The highest authorities, all State Officers, court functionaries, military commanders and soldiers, are, without exception, of the female sex. The men are agriculturists and merchants. The body guard of the King is formed of the female elite.

These amazons ride in the masculine style, wearing sharp steel points instead of spurs. They carry a pointed lance, which they swing very gracefully, and also a musket, which is discharged at fullop. The throne is inheritable by the eldest son, and in case the King dies without issue a hundred elected amazons assemble, in order to choose a successor from among their sons. The chosen one is then proclaimed lawful King. The capital city of this little State lies in one of the most picturesque parts of the island, in a fruitful plain, and is defended by two well kept fortresses. [November Galaxy.] ~ Newton Free Press, Jasper Co., Iowa, January 15, 1873.


Ladies Can Drive

Newton now has two lady chauffeurs. Miss Gertrude Parsons has for some time been handling the automobile and is quite skilled at this time. She rolls along in the electric carriage so smoothly and quietly, with such ease and grace, that it is a pleasure to watch her. And now she has been joined by Mrs. Dr. H. P. Engle, who was noticed this morning, accompanied by the doctor, who kept an eye on the performance. Mrs. Engle will no doubt be handling the machine alone in a short time. ~ The Newton News, Monday, October 12, 1903, Page 1, Column 2

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