Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

[Page 1] NASHVILLE WOMAN SUFFRAGE ASSOCIATION ROLL CALL MARCH TO JULY) 1918.

Call Call

HonoraryChariman [sic], Mrs. Leslie Warner ...... A A P A A A Chariman [sic] " W. A. Overall...... P P P 1st Vice " " Chas W. Baker ...... P P P A P 2nd " " " Geo. Frazer ...... A A A A A A 3rd " " Miss Katherine Allen ...... P P P A P P 4th " " Mrs. J. T. Graham ...... A A P A A A 5th " " Miss Mary Smith ...... A P P A P A Recording Sec'y Mrs. W. J. Morrison ...... P P P P P P Treasurer " R. M. Mills ...... P A P P A A Corresponding Sec. Miss Cisco ...... P A P A A A Auditor Mrs. R. S. Maddux ...... A A A A A A Standing Committees. Chairman Press and Publicity Mrs A. G. Buckner ...... A A A A A A " Finance " J. H. Smith ...... P A P P P A " Literature Miss Frank...... P A P A P P " Membership Mrs. Ira P Jones ...... P P P A A A " Meetings "C. D. Sullivan ......

WARD CHAIRMEN. 1st Ward Mrs. Norris ...... P A A P A A 2nd " 3rd " 4th " 5th " 6 " Miss Suchman ...... P A A A A A 7th " " Porter ...... P A P A A A 8th " 9th " Mrs A. E. Hill ...... A A A A A A 10th " " John Barksdale ...... P P P A A A 11th " " Jos. W. Fall ...... P A P A A A 12th " 13th " 14th " 15th " Miss McGregor ...... A A A A A A 16th " 17th " Mrs Bettie M Donelson ...... A A A A A A 18th " Miss Ciso [sic] ...... P A P A A A 19th " Mrs Myra Tandy ...... A A A A A A 20th " " Ira P Jones ...... P P P A A A 21st " " Charlton Rogers ...... A A A P P P 22nd " " Fossick ...... A A A P A A 23rd " " C M Russell ...... A A A A A A 24th " 25th " DISTRICTS. 7th Dist. 1st Pre't Mrs Buchanan ...... A A A A A A Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

" " 2nd " " J S Beasley ...... A A A A A A "1 " 1st " Miss Gunn ...... A A A A A A

[Page 2]

Regular Meeting, March 7th, 1918.

The regular monthly meeting of the Nashville, Woman Suffrage Association occurred at Headquarters; the Board thereof having previously met and elected Mrs. Geo. Frazer, Second Vice President; Mrs. Claude D. Sullivan, Chairman of Meetings; and Mrs. W. J. Morrison Recording Secretary.

Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved after discussion; Mrs. Overall going into her position on the unconstitutionality of meetings. Miss Allen reported four meetings. Mrs. Graham held meetings in the 15th and 22nd Wards, which endorsed Mrs. Warmer. Miss Cisco had written four letters, business or courtesy, both of which are important to the well being of an organization. Our treasurer, Mrs. Mills reported, some bills paid and a small balance of $37.66 remaining.

Mrs. J. H. Smith, financial chairman was mext [sic] heard and she went into the lack of funds to meet the dues to the State Association; and suggested that each delegate pay her representation fee of $5.00 (five dollars). Mrs. Fall suggested, the pledge go through the ward.

Mrs. Smith backed her suggestion with $5.00 pledged; Mrs. Overall $5.00 Miss Cisco, pd. $5.00; Mrs. Fall (ward) $5.00; Mrs. Mills (21st ward) $5.00; Miss Gunn (personal) $5.00; Miss Porter (7thward) $5.00: Mrs. Jones (personally) $2.50; Miss Allen (personally) $5.00; Mrs. Norris (personally) $5.00; Mrs. Graham $5.00;

It was suggested that any woman giving $5.00 be allowed to name the delegate for whom she paid, and that other delegates raise their representation fee. Press Chairman, being absent explanation of illness in her family brought forth expressions of regret and sympathy.

Mrs. Jones apologized for not having a better report but henceforth the membership chaiman [sic] declares she will prove her faith by her works.

Mrs. Norris has twenty einterested members, taking a lively interest in doing their patriotic duty as well as in the courseoof [sic] study. She has roll call responses with suffrage facts and opened the meeting with inspirational talk on her early suffrage predilections;--when only fifteen she heard [Page 3] Susan B. Anthony, Julia Ward Howe and others, the lights of a generation past and we may well add, their works the beacon lights of today.

Miss Porter had had her usual interesting meeting, so entertaining that women of other wards want to attend and she asked whether activities in which on resides , is absolutely restricted thereto. With firty [sic], membership, about one half are dues paying. The usual programme, a suffrage talk, the course of study and current events. We are indebted to Miss Porter for stressing Red Cross work in her ward and urging women to attend; she stated that so small a number, as 12 could make a good showing in war work.

Mrs. Barksdale (10th) announced a good meeting and the study course progressing satisfactorily. Mrs. Fall (11th) has 12 active members but declares, they feel hampered with the present plan of activities.

Miss Cisco, finds evening meetings fit into her ward best, and they have a real social time while pushing a good cause in their study course.

Mrs. Jomes [sic] reported the women of her ward interested in the suffrage course and has 12 dues paying members. Mrs. Rogers has a very large membership, in the (21st ward) and an intensely interested one. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

The last meeting Mrs. Overall, president, appeared before then. The suffrage study is proving interesting and instructive. Mrs. Morrison having been chairman for suffragists for the sale of Thrift Stamps, at the automobile show, reported sold $136.75.

Miss Frank, chairman of literature, reported--having a credit with the National Association, for literature ordered for the fair and arriving too late was returned, she had ordered $5.00 worth to be placed against that credit.

The former meetings being declared illegal and the organization desiring to avoid any possible error, wanted to again put itself on record endorsing

Mrs. Leslie Warner ratified the endorsement.

Reports being closed the meeting next took up the question of whether the best interests of the cause were concerved [sic] by a central publicity [Page 4] chairman or by the several ward chairmen. Miss Frank moved and it was carried, to discuss it at the various ward meetings and report back at the next meeting of the Council.

Dlegates [sic] were instructed to pledge $50.00 to the state at the approaching convention at Memphis.

Mrs. Morrison's motion was carried, that all important motions be written amd [sic] signed and handed in to the secretary. Mrs. Morrison moved the appointment of a Red Cross chairman; and that each ward chairman be urged to pledge one woman each Wednesday; and more if possible. Miss Porter was appointed, and Miss Katherine Allen immediately pledged herself or a substitute for Wednesday, Suffrage Day at Red Cross.

Mrs. Hill Bond's letter to the Chaiman [sic] was then read-- in substance to secure more than one half the white voters' signitures [sic] to be sent her and then forwarded as a gentle persuasion to Senator Shields.

The meeting adjourned to take up informally the division of the city, for the systematic work of securing a mammoth petition.

The state credited the Nashville Suffrage Association with the generous donation of Mrs. Charles Baker of 11.36, that she had expended for stamps in doing state publicity, for which she was to be reimbursed was donated by Mrs. Baker to the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association.

Respectfully submitted, Martha Rogan Morrison

[Page 5] ASSIGNMENT OF TERRITORY FOR THE SHIELD'S PETITION

Miss Porter ...... 7th. Ward Miss Suchman ...... Union and Deaderick. Miss Allen ...... a part of 6th and 7th Aves Mrs. Charlton Rogers ...... West Nashville. Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Morrison ...... Commerce St, Court House, City Hall. Mrs. Norris and Miss Smith ...... North Nashville. Mrs. Albert Hill ...... 5th. Avenue. Mrs. Barksdale ...... 4th " Mrs. Donelson ...... 17th Ward and Hermitage Dist. Miss Ciscoe ...... 18th " " 2nd Avenue. Mrs. Overall ...... 1st " Mrs. Joy ...... E&N. Mfg. Co. Carter's shoe Factory, 1st St. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

Miss Gunn ...... Standard Oli Co. and adjoining terri. Mrs. Fossick ...... Church St. from 7 Ave. to river; N. side Pub. Sq. Mrs. Graham ...... Broad St. and South Nashville.

[Page 6] April [11 -written in pencil] 1918.

The regular Monthly meeting of the Nashville Woman Suffrage Associatio [sic] for April was deferred from the 1st Thursday, the time honored meeting day, to April 11th, owing to the state conference in Nashville, of the Council of the National Defense.

Time is at such a premium that the deferral occasioned a small attenddance [sic] and only a quorum of seven were present.

Mrs. Baker 1st vice president was chairman of Suffragist for the Thrift Stamp Carnival, held on Capitol Boulevard, reported Miss Allen her valliant [sic] ally. While the work devolving upon them was strenuous the advertising of suffrage, was such as to be felt entirely worth the effort.

Due credit and thanks were given to Miss Mc[?]uiddy, Madams Ed Wright And Celia Grady Ready; St. Bernard's Convent girls and others.

An expense of $6.00 for bunting, for decorating was reported and a motion prevailed that it be paid by the Association.

Mrs. Baker's motion that all bunting belonging to the Association be put in order and kept at Headquarters carried. The chair requested Mrs. Barksdale to see to this being done at the expense of the Association for the laundrying [sic]. Mrs. Overall reported having purcyased [sic] on behalf of the Association, a corsage beauquet [sic], for Dr. Anna Howard Shaw, during her visit to the city for the Council of National Defense Convention; and also the sending of a design upon the death of Mrs. A. G. Buckner's daughter. Mrs. I. P. Jones moved the payment of the bills, which carried.

Mrs. Geo. Frazer, who was elected2"Vice President. having been unable to attend the meetings had made it clear to the Chairman that her activities were uncertain, the advisability of filling the place was discussed; Mrs. Barksdale moved the election remain status quo. Mrs. Jones moved to have letter heads made as the board stood.

[Page 7] Miss Allen had held three meetings in her werd [sic].

Miss Mary Smith had held no meeting in North Nashville.

The corresponding Secretary had written letter os [sic] sympathy to Mr. Wilson of the Hermitage Hotel, upon the death of his wife. Mr. Wilson has been the good friend of the Association for the years of his residence in the city, and it was a matter of sincere sorrow that such a sorrow had befallen him.

Mrs Jones' meeting had hot [sic] been satisfactory. Mrs. Barksdale's meeting, falling in Holy Week, it had been deemed wise to defer but had plans for a good meeting in May.

Mrs. Jones did not hold 20th Ward meeting.

Mrs. J. H. Smith requested each ward chairman to appoint a financial chairman, from her ward, to make up a financial committee, with Mrs. Smith as its chairman. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

Mrs. Baker moved the acceptance of the resolutions, as read, in sympathy for Mrs. A. G. Buckner; and those of welcome to the Business Women

The Corresponding Secretary was instructed to write letters of appreciation to Madams Staven Driver, E. G. Wright, Celia Grady Ready and Miss McQuiddy, for faithful help at the Thrift Stamp Carnival.

Ward chairmen having failed to have meetings in many instances, they could not report the wishes of their organizations on the question of publicity that was to be decided at this time. Therefore it was deferred to May meeting.

Mrs. C. D. Sullivan was appointed Chairman of the Third Liberty Loan.

Respectfully submitted, Martha Rogan Morrison

[Page 8]

Resolutions of Sympathy for Mrs. A. G. Buckner.

Whereas, In the infinite scheme of existence, this life is but the stepping-stone to the eternal life; and Whereas You in beautiful Christian humility, say with the Only Begotten Son, "Thy will not mine be done". Therefore We the Nashville Woman Suffreage [sic] Association do individually and collectively extend to you our deep and abiding sympathy in your sore affliction. Mrs. W. J. Morrison Mrs. R. M. Mills Miss Katherine Allen.

[Page 9] United States Senate. It was furthe [sic] deemed expedient to wire Senator Shields and a motion was passed that Mrs. Morrison, the recording secretary send the message and also to weite [sice] Senator K. D. McKellar to stand with us in his usual steadfast way. Mrs. Morriso's [sic] suggestion to send a night letter was adopted and the message was derafted [sic] ---"We endorse and urge your vote for the suffrage amendment [sic], that has passed the House, and protest against any further delay in the passage by the United States Senate". Nashville, Tennessee. May 26th, 1918.

Senator K. D. McKellar; My dear Senator McKeller; We most heartily endorse the action of the United States Congress, in passing the Federal Suffrage Amendment, and protest against further delay in its passage by the United States Senate. The women of Tennessee have a keen appreciation of your loyalty to the suffrage movement, when friends were friends indeed; and we are trusting to this sincere and enthusiastic support at this critical time when the line is so closely drawn. Thanking you for your friendship in the past and begging the same type at this time, and in future, we remain Gratefully, Nashville, Woman Suffrage Association, Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

Martha Rogan Morrison Recording Secretary.

After disposing of this business Mrs Warner brought up the matter of electping a chairman of the organization, endorsing and nomingting [sic] Mrs. D. T. Kimgrough [sic]. It wa [sic] pointed out that Mrs. Kimbrough was a woman of business and and that a woman should be chosen who could give the work more time especially at this time. Miss Porter urged that Mrs Kimbrough appeared to get the time to accomplish what she undertook. Mrs Morrison moved adjournment and Mrs Mills seconed [sic] and amended to---Adjourn till 5 o'clock Monday afternoon, for the sole purpose of electing a chairman of the N. W. S. Association" May 27th, 1918. Monday May 27th,, at 5 o'clock was held the neeting [sic] of the Executive Board, deferred from the called meeting on the preceeding [sic] Saturday, held for the purpose of electing an organization chairman. Those present were--Madams, Warner, Baker, Allen, Morrison, Mills, Jones, Maddux, Smith, Sullivan, and Misses Cisco and Frank. [Page 10] Miss Porter was present and Challenged the failure of the secretary to call her name, as a member of the Board. Mrs. Morrison the secretary referred it to the chair for decision. Miss Porter explained that she had been invited to serve on the board by Mrs. Overall, in defference [sic] to her chairmanship of War Relief. The chireman [sic], Mrs. Charles W. Baker declared uncertainty on the point and Mrs. Mill arose and said she would challenge Miss Porter's vote, proceeding to explainx the constitution with respect to who was entitled to a vote; Miss Porter interrupting, said she had been on the point of resigning and precipitately left the room. Mrs. Leslie Warner, the state president, being present threatened to leave the meeting, but without protest, her own better judgment prevailed and she remained. Failing to leave, Mrs. Warner entered into the nost [sic] unusual and remarkable denunciation of the Board assembled, for the effort in thei [sic] judgment to uphold the constitution under which the organization and therefore the Executive Board thereof held its existence. The ludicrous side would have been even more manifest but for the state president's deep feeling Several members made an effort to explain the situation, as a necessity owing to the election which was on, rendering it necessary to either take action or stand for an illegal vote, which likely would lead to trouble later, to say nothing of legal votes being one of the cardinal points in the fight for "votes for women". Mrs. J. H. Smith declared the whole thing was occasioned by ignorance of the constitution, otherwise Mrs. Overall would have known she could not confer a vote upon any chairman in opposition to the clear statement of the constitution, upon this point, and that Miss Porter and Mrs. Leslie Warner the honorary chairman of the organization, would have likewise known Miss Porter could not be given a vote by an invitation of the chairman where the constitution names those who shall vote upon the board. Mrs. Mills tho [sic] no listened to in a former effort to explaing the unhappy situation, moved that a committee be appointed to wait upon Miss Porter and explain to her the constitution, where it expressly names the five chairmen who have a voice upon the board. Mrs. Chas W. Baker, the acting chairman, appointed Mrs. W. J. Morrison, Mrs. J. H. Smith, and Miss Katherine Allen.

June 3rd, 1918. A called meeting of the Central Council was held at Headquarters June 3. An informal committee composed of Mrs. Morrison, Mrs. Mills and Miss Allen had waited upon Miss Lipe to get definite information upon her position regarding the chairmanship of the Nashville Association. This committee reports that Miss Lipe would not consider the place encumbered with debt, consequently Mrs. Baker had called this meeting of the Central Council to take steps to liquidate the indebtedness. All present agreed it to be the only fair thing to do, to give a new chairman a clean sheet. It appeared to ge [sic] the frank conviction that the organized work is all to difficul [sic], with the necessarily multiplied war activities, to ask an incoming official to assume old debts. However even after an effort by phone and personally to impress the urgency of the meeting, there was a poor attendance of ward chairmen as well as officers Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

Mrs. Guilford Dudley, our representative upon the National Board, in response to an invitation, to be present to lend her council, was there;

[Page 11] [Begin Letterhead] KENNETH D. MCKELLAR, TENN., CHAIRMAN.

OLLIE M. JAMES, KY. ALBERT B. CUMMINS, IOWA. HENRY F. HOLLIS, N. H. ROBERT M. LAFOLLETTE, WIS. JOSEPH E. RANSDELL, LA. REED SMOOT, UTAH. JOHN H. BANKHEAD, ALA. LEBARON B. COLT, R. I. WILLIAM F. KIRBY, ARK. HIRAM W. JOHNSON, CAL. JOSIAH O. WOLCOTT, DEL. MILUS NISBET, CLERK.

UNITED STATES SENATE, COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE AND RETRENCHMENT. [End Letterhead] June 3rd, 1918.

My dear Mrs. Morrison:- Your letter of the 26th ult., has just been received. I thank you most cordially for your expression of appreciation for my past support of woman suffrage measure and wish to assure you that I shall vote and work for the National Suffrage Amendment. Very sincerely yours, Kenneth McKellar[? -Signature]

Mrs. W. J. Morrison, Recording Secretary, Nashville Woman Suffrage Association, Nashville, Tennessee.

[Page 12] Miss Porter, Red Cross chairman, reported deep disappointment in the co-operation of suffragists. She was very appreciative of Mrs. Ira P. Jone's efforts and the response which had been given Mrs. Jones by the ladies of her ward. Mrs. J. W. Fall had also attended and had brought four members of her ward organization. Wednesday has been declared a slack day at Red Cross, Miss Porter, said, a sad commentary upon us as that is Suffrage day. The second ward meeting was held; the 7th ward meeting had been interferred [sic] with by the Liberty Loan Drive, Miss Porter reported. Mrs. Fall reported excellent interest in the meeting with Mrs. Jesse Thomas, in the 11th ward. In the 17th ward the meeting was held with Mrs. McKee. The 20th Ward meeting was held April 26th with Mrs. R. L. Sawyers; Mrs. I. P. Jones presiding. The attendance was unusually good and several new cards of membershi [sic]; were turned in. It being Over the top"day for the Third Liberty Loan, a fiftey [sic] dollar bond was taken by the organization. The subject of disposing to advantage, of the gas range, given the Central Council, was discussed at the 20th ward meeting and a decision reached, that the ward would aid in any way agreed to by the other wards, to realize the value of the stove; the money received to go to the Red Cross or the maintenance of a French orphan. One central publicity chairmanwas [sic] decided upon by this ward. The second lesson of the Study course was read and discussed; current topics cited and the meeting adjourned to the fourth Friday in May." Report turned in. The 21st ward meeting was not satisfactory to Mrs. Rogers the chairman, owing to the Liberty Loan Drive. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

Mrs. Adkins had held a good meeting in the 22nd ward and expressed hopes of cooperating at Red Cros [sic], hot [sic] having understood the plan of work. Mrs. Overall was much encouraged with the outlook for an organization in the 25th ward. The question of handling the publicity, deferred from a former meet [Page 13]ing was decidedi [sic] in favor of each ward having its own chairman of publicity Mrs. Baker's motion was "that each ward have a chairman of publicity, and that such chairman report all meetings held in the ward and adhere strictly to such matters as pertain to suffrage in the respective wards". Miss Gunn, chairman of the 1st Precinct, being absent submitted her report in writing " The 1st precinct, 11th district of the Nashville ".S. Association met Saturday April "7th with Mrs. J. J. Vsughn [sic]; Mis [sic] Gunn presiding. Minutes of previous meeting read and approved. There were two new associate members present and a very encouraging number of full membership. The meeting was opened by the singing of "America" and the Liberty Loan and Thrift Stamp work were stressed above every thing. A mothion [sic] carried to elect Mrs. Jim Gillock, War Service chairman, whose duty it is to see that members are present at Red Cross on Wednesdays. Mrs. Jas. B. Ezell gave a very interesting history of the suffrage work in general [sic], as most of the members were not familiar with it. Miss Allen led the study of the fourth lesson of the Couse [sic] and was most interesting. The question of purchasing a Liberty Bond for the organization was discussed, but it was thought best not to undertake it, the members having already subscribed through personal chalels [sic]. The meeing [sic] then adjourned to meet the last Satureay [sic] in May, with Mrs. Gillock." Turned in by Miss Gunn. Approved as read. Respectfully submitte [sic] Martha Rogan Morrison, Recording Secretary May 25th, 1918. Saturday May 25th, a called meeting of Nashville Woman Suffrage Association was held for important business, regarding Mrs. Catt's appeal to suffragists at large to speed up the Senate on the too long delayed suffrage amendment, pending before the Senate. Those present, Madams Warner, Baker, Morrison, M xxx. Jones. And Misses Allen, Frank and Porter. Miss Frank moved, the body go on record as endorsing the amendment and protesting against further delay by the U

[Page 14] May 2nd, 1918. The regular monthly meeting of the executive board of the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association, was held in the Loggia of Hotel Hermitage, at 2 o'clock May 2nd, 1918. Those present, Madams Leslie Warner, Chas. Baker, J. T. Graham, W. J. Morrison, J. H. Smith, Ruben Mills, and Misses Allen and Frank. Upon opening the meeting, Mrs. W. A. Overall. the Chairman presiding, explained that in defference [sic] to her health, she would have to resign the work. A note of regret pervaded the informal discussion, which brought about Mrs. Overall's resignation; however, placed as it was upon justice to her health, it was rendered undebatable and Mrs. Leslie Warner moved the acceptance of Mrs. Overal's [sic] resignation, in which the Executive Board joined in regretful acquiexcence [sic]. Central Council Regular Meeting. The regular monthly meeting of the Central Council of the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association was held at Headquarters at 4 o'clock May 2nd, 1918, just following the meeting of the Executive Board. Mrs. Leslie Warner, state president, was present, but with limited time at her disposal, and having a message of importance, she wished to present to the Council, the Chair set aside regular routine, of roll call, etc. to hear Mrs. Warner first. Mrs. Warner then proceeded to make clear her position toward the Womans Party, and what in her judgment should be that of the Nashville suffragists, members of the National American Woman Suffrage Association, toward the representatives of the Woman's Party, otherwise known as the picketers. She very positively protested against the hearings being arranged for the picketers in Nashville. Mrs. Warner said she did not believe that the people understood the insidious methods, as it were, for it is not being made clear that they are one and the same, who were the annoyance to P [Page 15] Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

President Wilson. It was further explained by the speaker, that Mrs. Catt was emphatic in her denunciation of the methods persued [sic] by the Woman's Party. They being separate and distinct organization from the National Association, in Mrs. Warner's opinion President Wilson will never accept the appeal of the picketers; therefore she would make it clear to the people of this state just where she stands on the question. She added, further her belief that we can serve but one master, and closed her remarks with- "he that is not for me is against me." Mrs. Warner promised, at the next meeting to outline her policies and plans for the execution thereof. Mrs. J. H. Smith was hext [sic] heard, as her time too was pressing and it being ever imperative to bring up financial points, the financial chairman was given the floor at once. At the previous meeting Mrs. Smith had requested a financial chairman from each ward to make up her committee. The response had been far from satisfactory, so much so that Mrs. Smith made the point very emphatic that assistance must be forthcoming. Mrs. Chas. Baker reported holding no meetings. Miss Allen had held four; Mrs. Graham reported good work in the 32nd ward but no meetings had been held in the 15th Ward. She reported having been communicated with to hold a meeting at her home, at which some stranger was to be presented; however she was pleased to say that since it must have been the "picketers" who were so stealthy in their movements, that she would not be there to receive them. Miss Mary Smith's meeting had been fairly well attended, she said. Mrs. Mills, the treasurer, reported an alarming lack of Funds whereupon the chair urged all ward chairmen to come forward financially. Mrs. Adkins of the 22nd ward, pledged $10. from her ward. [Page 16] Mrs D. T. Kimbrough, the treasurer for 1917, also by invitation was present, but Mrs. Overall, the recent retiring chairman, was deterred from being present by the illness of Mr. Overall. Mrs. Baker upon rapping the meeting to order, stated, that she had read carefully the constitution and had deducted from the articles, we had no organization. She had further consulted a good parliamentarian, with the opinion reached, that it would seem from the constitution, that there had been an effort to disorganize, rather than to organize, judging from the articles contained therein. However the chief point made which effected this meeting was in article III, section a..i.e. "The officers of this organization shall be a chairman, four vice chairmen, a recording secretary, a treasurer, a corresponding secretary, and an auditor; five of whom shall constiture [sic] a quorum". The chair ruled there being expressly stated, five officers must be present, and that number not being present, over and above chairmen of standing committees and ward chairmen, it was not legal to transact business and the meeting would have to be an informal one. The financial chairman, Mrs. J. H. Smith, was first heard, upon the exact indebtedness. It is $137.50 to Brandon Printing Co; for fans used at the state fair in 1917; two bills of $3.00 each to Joy, for flowers, bought by Mrs. Overall making $6.00; a bill at Castners for bunting, used for decorating the suffrage booth, at the Thrift Stamp Carnival, purchased by Mrs. Chas. Baker, who was chairman of the Occasion; $6.00 for posters; and about $15.00 yet due the State Association on pledges; making a total of $170.50 with a credit of $12.00 cash on hands; leaving due $158.50. There being seventeen wards organized, it was deemed practical to prorata [sic] the expense and thereby the liquidation be made easy upon all. It was suggested that each ward treasury contained probabley [sic] several dollars, which could be applied to pay the debt, and in pursuance of this suggestion Mrs. Mills moved-"that each ward chairman be requested to arrange, that money in her ward treasury be turned over to the Central treasury to meet the present emergency"; which was adopted. It was related that a precedent was made, [Page 17] under similar conditions, of one woman making a note in bank, for the amount with the assurance of the support, of the active members of the Association in paying off the note. Without definite action the meeting adjourned to meet in regular session Thursday. The corresponding secretary was instructed to send written notices to all who were not present, and stress the importance of being on hand at the regular meeting. Approved as submitted. Martha Rogan Morrison, Rec. Sec'y.

June 5th, 1918. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

The regular monthly meeting of the Nashville W. S. Association, took place at Headquarters, but there not being five officers present, in obedience to the constitution, a quorum was not present, so those present went into the discussion of raising the debt which resulted in the following pledges toward liquidating it. Mrs. Baker (15th ward) $5.00; Miss Allen (personally) $10.00; Mrs. W. J. Morrison personally) $10.00; Mrs. J. H. Smith (personally) $10.00; Miss Smith ( ) $7.50; Miss Frank (21st ward) $5.00; Miss Cisco (personally) $5.00; Mrs. Rogers (21st ward) $14.00; Mrs. Adkins (22nd ward-$10.00. Miss Allen reported three meetings; Miss Smith had held the meeting in the 2nd ward. Mrs. Mills, the treasurer being out of town, no report was made from that office. Mrs. Smith financial chairman, awake the necessity for funds and spurred on by our long over due bills urged financial activities. Miss Frank, chairman of literature had had no calls for material in her department, but reported valuable publicity for Overseas Hospital The committee appointed to explain the constitutional position, of the Executive Board, to Miss Porter, was called upon to report to the Central Council, as there was not an executive board meeting held, the chair ruled to hear the committee's report; and too there were several present who were at the meeting, from which Miss Porter withdrew and it was deemed wise to [Page 18] have them hear the result of the committee's efforts. Mrs. W. J. Morrison, as chairman of the committee, made the report, Mrs. J. H. Smith and Miss Allen the members of the committe [sic] were both present. Mrs. Morrison stated, she had tried to make an appointment with Miss Porter for the committee, but that Miss Porter had not deemed it due herself to reply to the overtures made her over the phone. Mrs. Baker, the acting chairman had instructed the committee, that if Miss Porter did not respond to the ordinary proceedure [sic] of a committee, the duties of the committee ended there. However preferring to give Miss Porter the benefit of extreme courtesy, on their part, the comitee [sic] went to the limit of writing her what it was regarded should be put before her in explanation of the constitution. THE LETTER TO MISS PORTER WITH AUTOGRAPH SIGNATURES IS ATTACHED HERETO IN LOOSE LEAF FORM.

After the reading of the letter, which was approved by those present, Mrs. Baker reported she had been authorized to verbally communicate Miss Porter's resignation. She further stated that the message to present this was given Mrs. Baker after the committee's letter had reached Miss Porter. Miss Frank suggested not acting at once upon this resination [sic] till Miss Porter be asked if she would hold the position without a vote. Miss Frank and Mrs. Rogers were appointed to see Miss Porter. A month later at the reading of the minutes, for approval, no reply had been forth coming, and the incident was dropped. Mrs Smith reported a splendid success of the Overseas Hospital benefit, which took the form of a card party at the Commercial Club. All tickets were not in and Mrs Smith could not report the amount taken in. The Council was very delighted to have Miss Lipe present and to discuss freely and understandingly, the attitude of both, in the matter of the chairmanship. The discussion was very frank, but resulted in a difference of opinion; which on the part of the Council, may have been "the wish [Page 19] was the father of the opinion". Miss Lipe thought to wait till the city convention, would be better than to tke [sic] over the organization at this time, when so little is going on in the Association ahdyet [sic] so much to be done elsewhere; and to give more time for liquidating the indebtedness, that no chairman should covet. Miss Allen and Mrs. Smith were openly opposed, but Mrs. Smith, moved to defer motifying [sic] Miss Lipe of the unanimous election, till seeing what was done toward raising the obnoctious [sic] debt. Miss Frank moved--"when we adjourn, we adjourn to meet today one week and to endeavor to bring in all money possible". Approved as read. ONE WEEK LATER. It developed that so few could be present, that the meeting was deferred till Saturday June 15th. Upon this date the acting chairman, Mrs. Baker, could not attend and Miss Allen was to preside, but upon reaching Headquarters there was not a quorum, only Miss Allen, Mrs. Morrison, Miss Frank and Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

Mrs. Rogers being present; consequently no business could be transacted but Mrs. Rogers had in hand her pledge $14.00 and so did Mrs. Morrison, have her $10.00; and the two amounts were turned over to Miss Allen. Mrs. Morrison then asked that a drawing, for an old brooche be held, this being the method she had taken of raising her pledge. She explained that it had been started to raise funds for the Gallatin League, but there being some objection to chances ther [sic], it was pushed for the Nashville Association. It was set forth at the time that the pin would cost $8.00; some tablets were purchased to use as legal requirements; one dollar was given on the prize offered by the Gallatin League, in a suffrage contest and other sundry dxpenses [sic] were aggregated. All numbers were entered upon slips of paper, and a child, little Miss Bitner, next door to Headquarters, was asked to draw a number, which would be the lucky number. The number drawn was NO. II--- which was Mrs. George A Clarks number. Approved as read. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

[Page 20] [Begin Header] NASHVILLE WOMAN SUFFRAGE ASSOCIATION

MRS. CHAS. W. BAKER, FIRST MRS. W. A. OVERALL, MRS. R. S. MADDOX, AUDITOR VICE-CHAIRMAN CHAIRMAN MRS. JNO. HENRY SMITH, MRS. GEO. A. FRAZER, MRS. LESLIE WARNER, CHAIRMAN FINANCE SECOND VICE-CHAIRMAN HONORARY CHAIRMAN MRS. A. G. BUCKNER, MISS CATHARINE ALLEN, CHAIRMAN PRESS THIRD VICE-CHAIRMAN HEADQUARTERS 236 SIXTH MISS MATILDA PORTER, MRS. J. T. GRAHAM, FOURTH AVENUE, NORTH CHAIRMAN WAR RELIEF VICE-CHAIRMAN MRS. CLAUDE D. SULLIVAN, MISS MARY SMITH, FIFTH NASHVILLE, TENN. CHAIRMAN MEETINGS VICE-CHAIRMAN MRS. IRA P. JONES, CHAIRMAN MRS. W. J. MORRISON, MEMBERSHIP RECORDING SECRETARY MISS SADIE FRANK, MISS MOZELLE CISCO, CHAIRMAN LITERATURE CORRESPONDING SEC'Y MRS. R. M. MILLS, TREASURER [End Header]

June 5th, 1918.

Miss Matilda Porter; Nashville, Tennessee.

My dear Miss Porter; This committee being unable to arrange a meeting with you for a verbal explanation, offers it in writing as we feel is your due. We regret your misunderstanding of our intentions. Some of the Board were unaware of whether the vacancy on the board was to be filled by the Executive Board or the Central Council and we referred to the constitution for guidance. You recall the incident; at the opening of the meeting the Recording Secretary called the roll, in accordance with the regular order of business, when you, addressing the Secretary called attention to the fact that your name had not been called; the secretary referred it to the Chair, your name not being on the list furnished her. The question of the legality of your vote necessarily arose. Your with-drawal before the decision of the question was made is regretted. It is true you were without a legal vote according to the constitution of the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association, Article III2---section e- Mrs. Smith moved however that the constitution be amended to legalize your vote. The Chair then ruled that no amendment could be made to the constitution excepr [sic] at annual convention.

[Page 21 – see header on Page 20] Miss Porter #2.

Therefore as officials of the organization, we regarded it a duty that all votes be legal and in truth felt that all suffragists would take the same view, standing for legality in elections. We were about to enter into an important ilection [sic] and to vitiste [sic] its legality would have in all probability brought about disastrous results later, had the Board been willing to have stood for a violation of the Constitution. The incident was brought about, as made clear on the floor, by unfamiliarity with the Constitution. Respectfully, Mrs. W. J. Morrison Chairman Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

(Recording Secretary)

Katharine E. Allen (3rd Vice-President)

Mrs. J H Smith (Chr Finance) [Signatures]

[Page 22] NASHVILLE WOMAN SUFRAGE ASSOCIATION. ROLL CALL JULY TO JANUARY 1919………

Reg. Call. Call A. C. A Honorary chairman, Mrs. Leslie WARner ...... A A A A P A Chairman…… 1st vice chairman, [n Chas Baker -pencil] ...... P P P A A A 2nd " " 3rd " " Miss Allen ...... A A P P P P 4th " " Mrs. J. T. Graham ...... A P A P A P 5th " " Miss Mary Smith ...... A A A A A A Recording Sec'y Mrs. W. J. Morrison ...... A A P P A P Treasurer "Ruben M. Mills ...... A A P P A P Corresponding Sec'y Miss Cisco ...... A P P P A P Auditor " R. Sherrill Maddux ...... A A A A A A Standing Committees. Chariman [sic] Press and Publicity… " Finance Mrs. J. H. Smith ...... A A A P A A " Literature Miss Frank ...... A A A A A A " Membership Mrs. I. P. Jones ...... A A A A A A " Meetings " C. D. Sullivan ...... A A A A A A Ward Chairman. 1st. Ward. 2nd " Mrs. Norris ...... A P A A A A 3rd. " 4th " 5th " 6t " 7th " 8th " 9th " Mrs. Albert E Hill ...... A A A A A A 10th 2 " John Barksdale ...... A A A A A A 11th " "J seph Fall ...... A A A A A A 12th " 13th " 14th " 15th " Miss McGregor ...... A A A A A A 16th " 17th " Mrs. Bettie Donelson ...... A A A A A A 18th " Miss Cisco...... A P P P A A 19th " Mrs. Myra Tandy ...... A A A A A A 20th " Mrs. I. P. Jones ...... A P A A A A 21st " " Carlcon Rogers ...... A A A A A A Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

22nd " " Fossick ...... A A A A A A 234e [sic] " " C. M. Russell ...... A A A A A A 24th " 25th " Districts. 7th Dist. 1st Precinct Mrs. Buchanan...... A A A A A A 2n" " 2nd " Mrs. J. S. Beasley ...... A A A A A A 11th District 1st Precinct. Miss Gunn ...... A A A A A A

[Page 23] The Glorious Fourth. The regular meeting day for July, falling upon the Glorious Fourth, all suffragists of the Central Council took the liberty of celebrating the Republic's natal day, without directing an effort to another call of freedom. Mrs. Baker, the acting chairman, alone in Nashville, upheld the banner of woman's right to be made free, nearly three hundred years after our men declared their emancipation, and made it good on the fields of blood.

August 9th, 1918. A called meeting of the Nashville W. S. Association was held Friday August 9th, at 10 o'clock, at sufrage [sic] Headquarters. Those present were Mrs. Baker, Mrs. Norris, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Graham, and Miss Cisco. Informal discussion of the suffrage situation was gone into, especially the debt was discussed freely and the ladies voted to do everything they could to raise the debt. Each woman pledged herself to keep in mind and make prepartions [sic] for an entertainment in September. Contributions to the debt were---Mrs. Norris $5.00 and Miss Cisco $5.00. The action of the pickets in again taking a stand in washington was deplored, and the ladies present voted to stand loyally by the Tenn. Woman Suffrage Association and the National in all policies. Approved. Submitted by Mozelle Cisco. Rec. Sc'y pro tem.

Oct. 29th, 1918 A called meeting of the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association, was held upon this date, in the Loggia of the Hermitage Hotel, with Mrs. Baker presiding, Mrs. Baker having been ill, the September meeting was not held or the regular October meeting. This meeting was called to o.k. the Brandon bill and to devise means of wiping out all debt ere the end of the year. There being five officers [Page 24] present business could be transacted. Those answering present, were Mrs. Baker, Miss Allen, Mrs. Morrison, Mrs. Mills, and Miss Cisco. The organization, had been trespassing upon Mrs. Baker's generosity since early spring, her resignation, haveing [sic] been turned in prior to Mrs. Oberall's [sic?]. At the June meeting it had been voted not to accept her resignation, but now owing to illness it had to be again tendered, but not having been acted upon, she presided at this meeting. Mrs. Mills, the treasurer, having some money on hands, was anxious to cancel as many debts as possible, but with characteristic care, would pay no bills without the chairman's o.k. The long standing Brandon bill being a mooted question, she especially wanted this to have the stamp of approval of as many of the board as possible. A special account was kept by Mrs. Mills for all funds raised to liquidate the Brandon bill, for the fans used at the state fair in 1917. The amount of this account was $73.50 and the check given (with o.k.) was $66.73. leaving a special balance $6.77 This disposed of another viatl [sic] matter was freely discussed after Mrs. Mills motion---"That the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association owing to war conditions, discontinue regular monthly meetings for the prese t, but hold itself in readiness to respond to any urgent call for the cause." After a full discussion Mrs. Mills voted aye; Miss Allen and Miss Cisco "no" and Mrs Morrison not decided, declined to vote. The "nos" carried. Mrs. R. L. Sawyers was appointed to Mrs. Jones' place at Red Cross sewing room. Mrs. [?]aker then urged action upon her resignation, again presented after seven months waiting. Mrs. Morrison Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919 expressed the appreciation of the Board for Mrs. Baker's self sacrifice, in the effort to hold the organization together while without a chairman, and moved the acceptance of Mrs. Bakers resignation, which was backed by ample reason, the organization should not further impose itself upon her. Carried. Meeting Adjouened [sic]. Approved. Respectfully submitted. Martha Rogan Morrison. Rec. Sec'y.

[Page 25] November 7th, 1918. The regular monthly meeting of the Central Council, was held on the above date, at the Hermithage [sic] Hotel. The excitement of the town over the glimmers of peace, for the waring [sic] world, was such that to concentrate upon any thing else was all but impossible. Several present had already participated in the high excitement and by having joined in the marching parade that "took in town" had worked off some of the surpilus [sic] and were finally able to get down to finance. Mrs. Overall was back in town and while having no vote in the Council, her voice was very welcome among us. She had personally assumed a heavy portion of the Brandon bill, which had enabled the closing of the account, but the Council wished to reimburse Mrs. Overall, and this was first taken up. Miss Allen, 3rd vice president, presided and gave $5.00; Mrs. D. C. Scales $10.00; Mrs. J. H. Smith $10.00: Mrs. J. T. Graham, $1.00; Mrs. Overall, $10.00; and Mrs. Guilford Dudley $10.00 as a reimbursement to Mrs. Overall on the Brandon bill. Mrs. Hungerford, vice chairman of the 22nd ward was present to represent her ward in the absence of the chairman; Miss Cornelia Barksdale came to represent the 10th ward, her mother being chairman and could not attend. The chair expressed gratification at having Miss Barksdale present, but as proxies are not allowed in the organization, she could not be granted a vote in the body. The Council adjourned and the chair asked for a few minutes Board meeting and urged the election of a chairman, having duties forbidding her accepting the work. There being present five officers-i.e. Miss Allen, Mrs. Graham, Mrs. Morrison, Mrs. Mills, and Miss Cisco action was possible or rather within their constitutional rights but no action was taken.

November 26th, 1918. A called meeting of the Executive Board, was scheduled for this [Page 26] date in the loggia of Hotel Hermitage, "to fill vacancies upon the Board". There being present only the honorary chairman, Mrs. Leslie Warner, the state president and the acting chairman, Miss Allen no business could be transacted and adjourned after an informal discussion of existing conditions. Approved as read.

December 5th, 1918. Regular meeting upon this date was held at Hermitage Hotel with Miss Allen, Mrs. Graham, Mrs. Morrison, Mrs. Mills and Miss Cisco present. Mrs. Mills' report of out of debt was the occasion of heartfelt applause. Mrs. Mills presents resolution to be sent within an hour to Mayor Gupton, if passed--- Whereas, " the recent resignation of Mrs. John Hill Eakin, form [sic] the Nashville Board of Education, creates a vacancy on said Board, which must be immediately filled and Whereas more than half of the pupils attending our city schools are girls and therfore [sic] require a woman's council and guidance in the shaping of school policies, and Whereas, we believe that the women of Nashvile [sic] are entitled to representation on the board of Education, and that such representation will best serve the highest interests of our city's public schools; Be it resolved that we the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association, do hereby petition Mayor Gupton, in whose hands the power lies to appoint a woman to fill this very important position." Unanimously approved and forwarded at once to the Mayor. Miss Frank's resignation was handed in at this meeting but Miss Allen heard that she had not sailed, and the body hoping that she might return soon to Nashville, did not take any action upon it. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

It was decided at this meeting to hold the city Convention in January and the date tentatively set, which was later changed to Jan. 23. Miss A

[Page 27] Miss Allen made a few general plans at this meeting, among them the Board was asked to take the Chairmanships necessary to working out the details for making the Convention a success; the other chairmanships to be appointed as she could secure women to take them. Miss Allen Chairman General; " Cisco vice " " Mrs J. T. Graham Convention Treasurer. Mrs. W. J. Morrison, Press and Publicity. Mrs. J. H. Smith, Credentials. Mrs. W. A. Overall, Rules. Mrs. R. S. Maddux, Resolutions. Mrs Ira P. Jones, Badges. Miss Mary Smith, Decoration. Mrs. Ruben Mills, Programme. Mrs. C. D. Sullivan, Meeting. Mrs. Jas. S. Frazer, Luncheon. By request Mrs. Frazer accepted this. Each chariman [sic] was to make out her own committee. Mrs. Ira P Jones was elected, election chairman; and Mrs. Walter Jones and Mrs. John Kreig were appointed tellers.

THE CONVENTION. JANUARY 23, 1918. [? (1919) -written in pencil] Every detail of the convention had been attended to, till there were no places for hitches, it seemed. But at the last moment the luncheon was made off schedule time by the legislature, in joint session, inviting our distinguished convention guest, Mrs. T. T. Cotnam, to address them at 11.30 a.m. This being far more important than any thing else, we were willing that other things should be subservient. However every thing was finished during the afternoon, tho' the delegates were detained from home later than planed [sic]. [Page 28] The Convention opened with Mrs. W. J. Morrison, the recording secretary in the chair, as Miss Allen the acting chairman was at school and consequently could not be present to preside. The meeting was opened with the reciting of the Lord's Prayer. Mrs. Morrison then explained that being secretary, which means the gathering together of a great many loose ends of a convention, she would turn the chairmanship over to Mrs. Mills, who was a better parliamentarian and a woman with correct vision, and in seeing aright, did it. Mrs. Morrison then read the report of the Recording Secretary for 1918. Suffrage activities were naturally minimized while the dark cloud of war hung about the nation, but now that we have emerged from that black night of war into the blessed light of Peace, another year will have more to report, but probably not more done by suffragists. They have been active in every good work for the comfort and maintenance of our splendid boys. Yes, they have not only done their "bit" but I would bow my head in reverence to some of them, who have mede [sic] the Supreme sacrifice---A son given to the nation-- to the world, that the flag of freedom may wave over humanity. In the early part of 1918 the organization was left without a chairman through the resignation of that official, made necessary by illness, taking her away from the work so near to her heart, much to the loss of the cause. The 1st vice chairman, generously gave herslf [sic] to pushing forward the work, in the time she had at her disposal, the facts being, she had given her resignation prior to the chariman [sic], but it had not been acted upon. The 1st vice chairman carried on the work till October, when home conditions made it necessary for the Board to not further impose itself, but accept her resignation. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

There being a vacancy in the 2nd vice chairmanship, the lead fell to the 3rd vice chairman. While various vicissitudes had beset the organization, other that war [Page 29] itself, still it has been held together and the 17 ward organizations have done work consistent with conditions. One very taxing work upon the Central Council was the securing of signatures of more than 50% of the white vote, to be sent as a gentle persuasion to Senator Shields. The Central Council took hold of this and accomplished this tremendous task with credit. The city was systematically divided and the women appointed for each division, and they did the work most creditably. During the encumbency [sic] of the chairman the Thrift Stamp Carnival was held and the 1st vice chairman and many others did most enthusiastic work deserving personal preise [sic]. The state convention took place about this time and Nashville suffragists being much interested as a Nashville woman was a canidate [sic] for the chairmanship, went at thir [sic] own expense, since there were no funds to send delegates. The suffragists here took active part in all war work; the Red Cross work had a steady groth [sic], till Wednesdays were full days. In the 2nd Liberty Loan, the drive in which organizations worked under their own banner, suffragists did nothing short of splendid work, raising $119100.00 taking second place in the amount raised. The Association, was materially hampered in 1918 by an inherited debt, left them by the 1917 administration. Official possibilities, hesitated to take on such a responsibility while every financial nerve was being strained for patriotic purposes. The financial chairman realized that this must be liquidated, for our financial credit' sake, as well as to get the interest of strong women in a live, instead of a defunct organization. To that end every effort was addressed and every penny of old indebtedness paid and all current expenses of the year. Therefore the incoming administration will be handed a perfectly clean sheet. This was done in a [Page 30] large measure by the Board, with some assistance from those wards who would lend a helping hand, and some few friends making generous gifts to the cause.

The Report of the Treasurer of the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association for 1918. Receipts. Balance turned over by preceding treasurer------$2.77 Dues received from wards and precincts at convention 1917. 30.50 Pledges raised at convention 40.00 Contributions for raising of debt. (Debt for fans 1917) 141.22 Other contributions 3.50 ______$217.99 $217.99 Disbursements. Payment on debt of 1917. $139.25 Printing 17.60 Typewriting 3.00 Furniture 9.00 Janitor service, lights and sundries 48.11 $216.96 ______Leave a balance of $1.03 Respectfully submitted Helen Wile Mills, Treasurer.

The wards were requested to turn in reports to the Secretary of work done during the year, but only very few sent reports, these are turned in with these minutes of the years work of the organization. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

During the few hours of the convention, many necessary amandments [sic] were made to the rules, that were found advisable for the advancement of the work. New officers were elected for city work and delegates to the [Page 31] state convention, nominated. Mrs. T. T. Cotnam of Little Rock Arkansas, was brought here for the convention and every body was delight with her; she has done a big work in her own state, and has participated in the campaigns in many of the states; she is a fluent forcful [sic] speaker and with her ability goes social graces so natural to the women of our Southland. She is a Virginian and is especially suited to hold a Southern audience having been born and reared with their ideas. She was given a hearing by the legislature, and then attended the luncheon, at which there were more than a hundred women and four men, -- Hon. J. W. Gaines, Mr. Cunningham, Dr. W. J. Morrison, and Mr. W. A. Overall. Mrs. Warner was toast mistress introducing a representative from each organized ward, for a one minute toast. Mrs. Cotnam was given two minutes and Mrs. Dudley, our representative on the National Board, said "if Mrs. Cotnam is given but two minutes, surely I should take but one" However it may be said she did herself credit in that one minute, as she usually does. After the convention ended there was a dinner tendered Mrs. Cotnam by the Executive Board of the Nashville Association, to which Mrs. Dudley and Mrs. Warner were invited to attend as guests of the Board. At 8.15 a deligtful [sic] programme had been arranged, and Mrs. Cotnam addressed the Nashville public. The address was most excellent. Mrs. W. F. Bang, pronounced the invocation; Mrs. Dudley and Mrs Warner made a few well chosen remarks, and Mrs. R. E. Folk the newly elected chairman presiding, with happily brief and fitting introductions. The evening programme brought to a happy close, a very successful convention of 1918. [(?) 1919 -handwritten] Respectfully submitted Martha Rogan Morrison Recording Secretary.

[Page 32 (Handwritten)] 21st Ward Jan 21st 1919 Report of Jean's[?] Work The War[?] and the conditions have been my [?] to continuous interest in Monthly Ward Meetings So our record as to regularity in these is Not a good one but The co[?] May we claimed[?] Solely[?] in regard to other Ward Work.

Just previous to the last convention our Secretary and Registration Chairman Miss Lipe, now Mrs. Paul Gamble[?], had already done splendid work in a house to house canvas for Membership.

Our 150 names were Secured by [Page 33 – Right Side] her committee.

Since then Mrs. John Kenny has added over 150 170 Names to our roll. We now have two hundred and ninety three nonpaying Members and fourteen paying ones – Our treasurer Mrs Reuben Mills reports 275 in the treasurer in addition to the above dues –

The [?] chairman Miss Ella Lutr[?], and her committee of twelve ladies, were in [?] in all the work requested [?] and did [?] [?] Service [Left Side] not only in the effort to have the Ward roll represented on Suffrage Days at the Red Cross but also in organizing the Committee of twenty who worked on the 2nd Liberty Loan C[?]. In this Drive $31,500.00 was collected, ranging in account from $50.00 bonds to $1100.00 Sent in by Mrs. [?] Lincoln. A $2700.00 by the city Chairman Mrs. Orwall[?], who generously gave her ward the benefit of this, and a big $25000.00 subscription secured by Mrs. John Kenney. The Press Chairman Miss Frank, is now [Page 34] in Europe on War Service, but her absence does not make us forget our debt to her for her faithful work and interest Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

The Chairman of Press & Propaganda Mrs [?] reports that she has found no occasion to serve in this line, but it May be added that she has More than Contributed her share of labor on the Committees where she has served_ [Candid to Mrs. R. E. Folk the 21st ward [?] 9 am -written in pencil] Mrs Charlton Rogers Chairman

[Page 35 (Handwritten)] Nashville Tenn- January 23d, 1919- To the Secretary, Nashville Woman's Suffrage Association Dear Madam-, Having audited the treasury book of the Woman's Suffrage Association, I find it to be accurate in every particular Respectfully submitted (Mrs) R. Shirrell Maddox Auditor Nashville Woman's Suffrage Association

[Page 36 -Back of Page 35] Mrs. Morrison Secretary Nashville Woman's Suffrage Association The Hermitage Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

[Page 37] [Begin Header]

President Tennessee Woman's Vice-President MRS. MINNIE ALLISON WELCH Christian Temperance MRS. GRACE W. ROBINS Sparta, Tennessee Union McKenzie, Tennessee Corresponding Secretary Motto--A Battle is on, God Calleth Editor Open Door MRS. ESTELLE M. KNOX for You MRS. M. C. BAKER Knoxville, Tennessee Whittle Springs, Tennessee Method—Preventive, Educational, Recording Secretary Evangelistic, Social and Legal State Secretary Y. P. B. MRS. MINNIE KERR GILBERT MRS. CLARA S. HOFFMAN [Mrs. Huntingdon, Tennessee Watchword—Agitate, Educate, Tandy, Nashville, -written in pencil] Organize Martin, Tennessee Treasurer MRS. ELIZABETH D. COLLINS Badge--A Knot of White Ribbon State Secretary L. T. L. Winchester, Tennessee MRS. ROSE NIPHER Time of Payer--Noontide 1036 W. Eastland Avenue Nashville, Tennessee

[End Header] Martin, Tenn., [January 20, -handwritten] 191[9 -handwritten]

[Handwritten letter] Dear Mrs. Morrison,- Please make this report for us at the Convention Thursday.

Nineteenth Ward. The work in the Nineteenth Ward is at a standstill for lack of a chairman who can give time to the building up of the organization. We have a peculiar situation to deal with because the ward is divided by the railroad and by a colored population that follows it on both sides. There is no good way to get from one section to the other without a street car ride of 30 minutes each way and few like to waste so much time in travel. When the meeting is held in the east section, no one from the other section comes and only one goes from the east side to the west. For that reason we cannot study any continued set of lessons for there is a new class at each meeting. We believe it would be to the advancement of the cause if our east section could be united with the 22nd Ward and the West section with the 17th Ward. This suggestion was decided upon at our annual meeting – that we appeal to you to sanction this change in convention assembled. [Page 38 -see Header Page 37] owing to my absence from the city all summer and to the "flu" situation this fall and winter, we have held only three meetings with an attendance of four each. Dues to the amount of 50¢ were collected and paid directly into the city to help pay some debts of long standing. A special collection of $100 was taken for War work and turned over to the city treasurer. At the meetings we have discussed the best solution of our problem and have at last come to the conclusion first presented for your consideration. There are 22 suffragists in the ward that are listed but 2 of these have moved leaving us still 20 non-dues paying members. Two girls under 16 years would be glad to join but felt they cannot because of the question of dues. We desire that school girls may become members simply by signing the pledge without the payment of dues. (over) [Page 39 – Back of Page 38] Respectfully submitted, Nineteenth Ward, Myra A. Tandy, Vice-Chairman. Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

[Page 40 (Typed)]

To the Central Council, Nashville Woman Suffrage Association, Nashville, Tennessee.

It has been brought to the attention of the undersigned, who served on the outgoing executive board of the organization--that it is being generally said amoung [sic] Nashville Suffragist that there are still some outstanding debts.

The report has been circulated in spite of the fact that the secretary's report read on the floor of the convention distinctly stated the organization to be free of debt.

This communication is intended to contradict the above report and also to re-iterate the statement which can be found in the Secretary's report,--to the effect that the Nashville Woman Suffrage Association was absolutely free [^to the best of our knowledge -handwritten] of all indebtedness at the time of the City Convention, January 23, 1919.

We respectfully request that this be made a matter of loose leaf record and as such be incorporated in the minutes of the organization. Very respectfully, Mrs. W. J. Morrison L Mozelle Cisco Mrs. Rebecca M. Mills [Signatures]

[Page 41 (Handwritten)] Report of 20th Ward. The 20th ward organization has maintained its monthly meetings, (with only an occasional lapse) with a good average attendance, and a goodly amount of enthusiasm for the cause. Its membership of 20 dues paying and 108 non-dues paying members, is steadily growing. Realizing its obligations, both to the Central Council, and to the country, the 20th ward has turned over to the executive board, during the past year, $20.00, and has one $5000 Liberty Bond. Mrs. Jas. A. Marshall, Chairman. by Mrs. Ira P. Jones

Work of this Ward was faithfully perp[?] in the H[?] Journal Department of the Red Cross A large number of women from this Ward were in attendance each Wednesday, Suf. Day at Headquarters. Resp. Mrs. R. L. Sawyer ch[?]

[Page 42 (Typed)]

Nashville Tenn. Dec. 4th, 1918

Nashville Equal Suffrage League Nashville, Tenn.

Madam Chairman: Owing to my leaving Nashville, and moving to Handsboro, Mississippi, my future home, please accept my resignation as chairman of the 23rd. Ward of the Nashville Equal Suffrage League Nashville Woman Suffrage Association Minute Book, 1918-1919

With best wishes for the suffrage cause in Tennessee, I remain Faithfully yours, Mrs. C. M. Russell [Signature]

[Handwritten] Mrs. W. J. Morrison, am handing you the enclosed letters as I believe it entirely covers the work of the 23 ward up to the present Resp. Mrs. R. L. Sawyer ch[?] [Page 43 is a copy of Page 41]

[Page 44] Mrs. W. J. Morrison, Sect'y.

[Page 45 (Typed)] Nashville, Tenn Dec. 4th., 1918 Nashville Equal Suffrage League Nashville, Tenn.

Madam Chairman: Just a few lines in reference to the organization of the Nashville Equal Suffrage League of the 23 Ward. During theorganization [sic] of the wards under the leadership of the 23 Ward was organizedand [sic] the following officers were elected; Mrs. C. M. Russell Chairman Mrs. Myra Tandy Vice-Chairman Mrs. W. M. Goodlett Sec'y Mrs. W. S. Bramwell Treasurer The league held several meetings but no real work had been accomplished owing to the unsettled conditions brought about by the war. The small sum of $3.00 voluntarily given at the organization meeting was the only finances received by the 23 Ward league which was donated to the Central League, Aug. 1st., 1018 [intended as 1918?], to help debt of the Central League, which Mrs. John W. Overall assumed giving her personal note to the bank for the amount due. Enclosed please find all papersand [sic] printed matter inmypossession [sic]. With best wishes for the future success of the suffrage work ofthe [sic] 23 Ward, I remain, Faithfully yours, Mrs. C. M. Russell [Signature]