Celebrate Women's History Month
Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, has been home to remarkable women whose lives and legacies shaped history in profound ways. From the colonial era to the 20th century, these women defied societal norms, broke barriers, and left an enduring impact on education, literature, medicine, and the fight for freedom.
These extraordinary women, each tied to historic sites in Montgomery County, exemplify resilience, intellect, and courage, leaving a lasting legacy.
Flora Heebner, Schwenkfelder Library and Heritage Center
In 1904, Flora Heebner, a Schwenkfelder woman from Pennsylvania, embarked on a nearly 40-year missionary journey to China with the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions. Arriving in the aftermath of the Boxer Rebellion, she helped rebuild missionary efforts in Taigu, focusing on education, healthcare, and Christian conversion, particularly for girls and women.
Flora worked to combat opium addiction and supported Chinese women in unbinding their feet and rejecting harmful traditions. She witnessed major societal changes, including the fall of the imperial dynasty and the Japanese occupation. Forced to leave China in 1942, she continued her mission at Pine Mountain Settlement School in Kentucky before retiring to Pennsylvania, where she passed away at 72.
Elizabeth Graeme, Graeme Park
Dr. Graeme hosted lavish gatherings at his estate, Graeme Park, which was inherited by his well-educated daughter, Elizabeth, upon his death in 1772. Elizabeth is credited with hosting America’s first literary salons but faced personal hardships, including an ill-fated romance with Benjamin Franklin’s son and marriage to Henry Hugh Fergusson, a Scottish immigrant.
During the American Revolution, Fergusson sided with the British and fled to England, never returning. In 1778, Graeme Park was seized as the property of a traitor, but Elizabeth regained it in 1781 with the help of influential friends.
Financial struggles and poor health forced her to sell the estate in 1791 to her nephew by marriage, Dr. William Smith. After Elizabeth’s death in 1801, the Penrose family purchased the main property, maintaining the historic mansion and later offering tours.
Martha Washington, Valley Forge National Historical Park
Between 250-400 women were present at Valley Forge, including officers' wives like Caty Greene and Lucy Knox. Martha Washington arrived in February 1778 and played a key role in managing her husband’s headquarters, overseeing women who cared for sick soldiers and repaired clothing. Her efforts earned admiration, including from Baron von Steuben, who trained the troops.
Martha also organized a small celebration for George Washington’s 46th birthday. By May 19, 1778, the army emerged from the harsh winter, revitalized and better trained. Martha and George then parted until the next winter encampment in Middlebrook, New Jersey.
Hannah Till, Valley Forge National Historical Park
Hannah Till was an enslaved cook for General George Washington during the Valley Forge encampment (1777-78). Born in Kent County, Delaware, she was owned by Reverend John Mason, who leased her to Washington. Her husband, Isaac Till, was also an enslaved cook for the army. During her time at Valley Forge, she gave birth to a son, Isaac Worley Till.
Hannah and Isaac arranged to buy their freedom, and she successfully did so on October 30, 1778. Now a paid cook, she continued working for Washington and briefly for Major General Marquis de Lafayette. After the war, she and Isaac worked as cooks in Philadelphia. In 1824, she met Lafayette again during his national tour. Hannah Till passed away in 1826 and is buried in Eden Cemetery in Collingdale, Pennsylvania.
Justice Bell Suffragettes, Washington Memorial Chapel
In 1915, Pennsylvania suffragists sought to rally support for a state constitutional amendment granting women the right to vote. Activist Katharine Wentworth Ruschenberger proposed creating a replica of the Liberty Bell—dubbed the Justice Bell—to serve as a powerful symbol of the movement. She funded the $2,000 casting of the 2,000-pound bronze bell, which was produced by the Meneely Bell Company in New York.
Mounted on a truck, the Justice Bell toured all 67 Pennsylvania counties with its clapper chained to symbolize women’s political silence. Despite the publicity, the 1915 referendum failed. In 1920, suffragists took the bell on the road again to promote the 19th Amendment, and after its ratification, it rang 48 times in celebration. Once for every state in the union (Alaska and Hawai’i became states after 1920).
Today, the Justice Bell is permanently displayed at Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
The stories of these remarkable women highlight the enduring strength, determination, and vision that have shaped Montgomery County and beyond. Whether fighting for independence, advocating for education and human rights, or championing the cause of women's suffrage, their contributions continue to inspire generations. As we reflect on their legacies, we are reminded of the importance of perseverance and progress in the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. Their histories live on in the places they touched, serving as powerful reminders of the impact one voice—and one action—can have on shaping the future.
Montco History Pass Hint: Looking to win a free sticker, mug, or maybe a tote bag? The Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center, Graeme Park, and Valley Forge National Historical Park are all locations on the free Montco History Pass. When you visit, be sure to check in on the pass to earn prize points.
