South Carolina State Museum

The South Carolina State Museum is honoring the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment with a new exhibit called “A Voice of Her Own: South Carolina Women in Politics.”

The exhibit explores how women engaged with the political history of our state. A prehistoric scraper tells the story of how native women have a long tradition of being equal with men and powerful in tribal politics. Sherds of porcelain from a colonial plantation are an example of property, which women could spend their lives building, but not own. A tag that a Charleston enslaved woman was forced to wear underlines that some women were property, whose work built the base of South Carolina’s political power.

Guests will see a “Votes for Women” banner that belonged to USC student, Shirley Black, as well as a wide variety of political material from the 20th century including buttons both supporting and opposing the Equal Rights Amendment. From women who fought for prohibition to those who opposed it, this exhibit demonstrates how women have always had diverse opinions and concerns not captured within any one political party.

“This exhibit encourages guests to look at history a bit differently,” says Curator of Cultural History, Joann Zeise. “Instead of focusing on the role of men in the development of the state’s wealth and prestige, objects will give a closer look at the women who made that wealth and power possible.”

A Voice of Her Own is now open through September 27. Entrance is included with museum membership or general admission, which is $8.95 for adults, $7.95 for Seniors.The museum is offering free general admission to guests 12 and under, from August 8 – 23. These Future Voters can enjoy this special exhibit at no charge to learn about the importance and history behind the women’s suffrage movement.

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