First Woman Registered to Vote

Last week was the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment. I did a program on the Ouachita Parish Public Library’s Facebook page about Women’s Suffrage to mark the anniversary. You can watch the replay on the page. While doing research, I found this little article about the first woman to register in Ouachita Parish the first day registration opened to women.

The Monroe News-Star, September 15, 1920, page 3

MRS. BARNES IS FIRST WOMAN TO REGISTER HERE

CALHOUN LADY ENJOYS DISTINCTION OF BEING FIRST OUACHITA WOMAN TO REGISTER

Mrs. Florence Porter Barnes, wife of J.W. Barnes, of ward six, residence Calhoun, is the first woman of Ouachita parish to register.

Mrs. Barnes came to this city bright and early this morning and registered first when the books were opened by Clerk of Court “Pat” Hamilton.

The registration books are open for both men and women to vote in the general election in November. Mrs. Barnes was accompanied to Monroe by her husband.

The registration books will be open until thirty days before the general election, Mr. Hamilton said.

Several women registered today.

WAY TO GO MRS. BARNES!