Opposition

Library of Congress

Illustration shows Uncle Sam and John Bull leading a group of world leaders walking in the center aisle between an exhibit of women suffragettes on pedestals; among the figures are "Mrs. Faith Healer," "Woman Evangelist," "Mrs. Lease" holding a large rake, and an elderly woman wearing a crown labeled "Queen of Holland Dames," as well as one woman labeled "D.A.R." Those identified are: "Dr. Mary Walker," "Belva Lockwood," "Susan B. Anthony," "E. Cady Stanton," "Mrs. Eddy Christian Scientist," and "Carrie Nation of Kansas" holding a large ax.

Public domain.

This pamphlet was distributed by the National Association Opposed to Woman Suffrage.  It contained reasons why women did not need to vote; for example, it suggested women did not want to or care to vote, because it would “mean competitions of women with men instead of co-operation,” and because “you do not need a ballot to clean out your sink.”  Many women found these ideas rather offensive; however, there were some who did agree with them.  In addition to the anti-suffrage language, the pamphlet caught women’s attention with its title “Household Hints” and inside there was useful household advice.  These suggestions, like “Sour milk removes ink spots,” provided women with easy solutions to common issues while also encouraging them to not “waste time, energy and money” by voting. 

Public domain.

This political cartoon was created in 1912 by Laura Foster and shows her views towards suffrage. 

Library of Congress

c. 1909

Library of Congress

Suffragette Series No. 11, 1909 Anti-Woman Suffrage Postcards

Illustration shows a group of men and women marching under such banners as "The Lips That Touch Corn Likker Shall Never Touch Ourn", "W.C.T.U.", and "Carrie Nation Cadets", with one man carrying a small barrel labeled "Vegetable Tonic", and a large wagon labeled "Water Wagon No. 1" immediately behind the leaders, to show their support for prohibition. They are all colored blue.

1908

Library of Congress

Photograph shows men looking at material posted in the window of the National Anti-Suffrage Association headquarters; sign in window reads "Headquarters National Association Opposed to Woman Suffrage".

c. 1911

Library of Congress

Caricature of Frances "Fanny" Wright, British-born activist, exponent of female suffrage, and outspoken critic of slavery. The title's reference to Wright as a "gabbler" probably alludes to her sensational American lecture tour of 1829. Wright wears a black dress and long white scarf, and has the head of a goose. She stands reading from a book and gesturing, before a speaker's table with candles, pitcher, glass, and books. Behind her stands a young man, holding her bonnet and looking on. Mrs. Kemble's costume and the scene itself -- with its table, water, candles, and acolyte-like attendant -- seems intended to suggest an underlying parallel with liturgical rites.

1829

Library of Congress

This petition was sent to the United States Senate and includes the names of women opposed to women’s suffrage in 1917.

National Archives and Records Administration

The Massachusetts Anti-Suffrage Association sent this letter to the Senate and House of Representatives asking Congress to oppose the proposed woman suffrage amendment.

National Archives and Records Administration

Ellen F. Vanderbilt of Newport, RI, sent this letter to members of the Senate and House of Representatives. She expresses her opposition to the Federal Amendment for woman suffrage (the 19th Amendment), describing it as anti-American and an increase to the socialist vote.

National Archives and Records Administration