SHOE

ca. 1916-1930

Gift of John C. Board

2006.01.01

Montanans have made notable contributions to the larger American story in arenas ranging from politics to entertainment. One notable example is Jeannette Rankin (1880-1973), whom historian Joan Hoff Wilson described as "one of the most unique figures in American political history." A suffrage activist and unyielding peace advocate, Rankin became the first woman elected to the US Congress in 1914. She gained renown for voting against the United States' entry into both World Wars I and II. Although her stance was far from popular, many still admired the courage with which she adhered to her convictions. Consequently, in 1985 she was inducted as one of Montana's two representatives to Statuary Hall in Washington, D.C. Artist Terry Mimnaugh (b. 1955) referred to Rankin's singular shoe, now in the Society's collection, when she created the life-sizes bronze of Rankin that now resides in our nation's capital.