March 28, 1912: Esther Pohl Helps to Organize Eugene Suffrage Society

On March 28, 2012 Esther Pohl and Portland Woman's Club Suffrage Campaign Committee Colleagues Grace Watt Ross and Elizabeth Eggert helped to organize the Eugene Equal Suffrage League. Pohl's speech highlighted the links between women's votes and healthy communities.

The Eugene Daily Guard reported details of the meeting. Two hundred women were present for the organizational meeting. Organizers wanted to "work for votes for women and to educate women in their political duties and responsibilities." Any woman could become a member.

The group elected officers that day: Minnie Washburne, president; Mrs. P. L. Campbell, honorary president; Mrs. Fletcher, first vice president; Mrs. M.E. Watson, second vice president; Mrs. Morris Duryea, third vice-president; Mrs. E. J. Frasier, fourth vice president; Mrs. R. S. Bryson, recording secretary; Mrs. L. T. Harris, corresponding secretary; Mrs. C. A. Burden, treasurer.

Pohl, Ross and Eggert spoke at the meeting and the Eugene suffragists held a lunch in their honor on March 29.

"Eugene Suffragists Organize League in Eugene Last Night," Eugene Daily Guard, March 29, 1912, 6.