“Physician, suffragist, first female state senator”. That is what the black granite pedestal says below the Martha Hughes Cannon Statue. The statue stands outside the Utah State Capitol in Salt Lake City. This monument honors an extraordinary woman.
Who was Martha Hughes Cannon? She was a pioneer. She was a trailblazer. Her life story is one of resilience, determination and groundbreaking achievements.
Born in Wales in 1857, Martha’s family emigrated to Utah when she was just three years old. This move shaped her early life. Despite facing numerous challenges, she pursued education relentlessly. By age 25, she had earned multiple degrees. These degrees were in chemistry, pharmacy, medicine and oratory.
Imagine Martha Hughes Cannon as a young woman. She was driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to make a difference. She established a medical practice in Salt Lake City. She became resident physician at Deseret Hospital.
But her ambitions didn’t stop there. Martha Hughes Cannon became a vocal advocate for women’s suffrage. She fought tirelessly to regain women’s voting rights in Utah.
Now, look at the Martha Hughes Cannon Statue. Notice the book she holds. It symbolizes her dedication to learning and journaling. The book also represents the letters she wrote.
These letters reveal her faith and personal life. She became the fourth wife of Angus Cannon. He was a leader in the Church of Latter-day Saints. Because polygamy was outlawed, she often lived in hiding. She sometimes left Utah to avoid testifying about her marriage.
Observe the statue’s attire. Her stylish clothing reflects her self-presentation. She wanted to appear sophisticated. This was especially important when giving suffrage speeches.
In 1896, Martha Hughes Cannon achieved a historic milestone. She was elected to the Utah State Senate. She became the first female state senator in the United States. She even defeated her own husband in the election.
During her term, she championed public health. She established the Utah Board of Health. She also implemented policies for food safety.
This statue, created by artist Laura Lee Stay Bradshaw in 1996, captures Martha Hughes Cannon’s essence. It reflects her strength, serenity and determination. The statue stands 10 feet 10 inches tall.
Martha Hughes Cannon’s legacy continues to inspire. She was a true visionary. She paved the way for women in politics and medicine. Her contributions to Utah and the nation are immeasurable. Remember her name. Remember her achievements. Martha Hughes Cannon’s spirit lives on.