It is likely we have all heard the quips and jokes: The man is the master of his house (because his wife told him he was); behind every successful man is a good woman; and my favorite “Do you want to talk to the man in charge, or to the woman who knows what’s going on.” Women are good at supporting the efforts of their men.

However, sometimes the women step out of their backup roles and take the lead. Occasionally, several get together, assert their beliefs, and accept leadership positions.
In 1910, the remote community of Kanab, Utah, elected an all-woman town council. No other incorporated city in the United States had ever had that happen.

To commemorate the100th anniversary of that event, then Mayor Nina Laycook (another woman who stepped up) rounded up 5 talented friends and put together a skit that would tell the story. Word spread and soon the ladies were performing and sharing the story all across Utah, including the State Capitol. More invitations followed and a documentary was even produced.

The Daughters of the Utah Pioneers have convinced these talented ladies to present their historical skit at the Third Week Event at the McQuarrie Memorial Museum. The cast consists of Joyce Rhodes (as Mary Woolley Chamberlain), Linda Alderman (as Luella Maude Atkin McAllister), Nayna Christensen (as Ada Pratt Seegmiller), Judy Habbeshaw (as Tamar Steward Hamblin), Connie Burnett (as Sarah Blanche Robinson Hamblin), and Nina Laycook-Petty (as herself, former Kanab City Mayor Nina Laycook).

Valerie King, President of the Daughters of the American Revolution, will also spend some time discussing other important historical contributions made by interested, active women.

The fun will begin at 10:00 a.m. on September 18. The Museum is located at 147 North 100 East in St. George. The public is invited, it is free, and there is handicap access. Call 435-628-7274 if questions. Current COVID protocols are being followed. Masks not required by those who are vaccinated.