Remembered. That’s what the Anna Thomsen Milburn Memorial Plaque does. It sits quietly nestled amongst the greenery. It remembers Anna. A woman ahead of her time. The plaque itself is simple. Unassuming. Yet it speaks volumes.
This unassuming memorial honors Anna Thomsen Milburn. She was more than just a Seattle socialite. She was a passionate advocate for women’s rights. A devoted gardener. A lover of symphonic music. She challenged societal norms. She had strong opinions about money. Her beliefs were unorthodox. She even ran for President of the United States.
Anna was the daughter of Moritz Thomsen. He was a successful manufacturer and businessman. He headed the Pacific Coast Biscuit Company. His wealth gave Anna opportunities many women lacked. She used that privilege to pursue her interests. She dedicated her time to charitable causes. She gave lectures on economics. Her views were radical for her time. She believed that the current monetary system was flawed. She was a member of the Greenback Party. This party wanted to eliminate gold and silver certificates. They favored paper money based on “faith.”
Her Presidential run was short-lived. Her son urged her to withdraw from the race. He believed the time wasn’t right for her radical ideas. Despite this setback her dedication to her beliefs remained unwavering. She continued her social activism. She continued her work within the Seattle community.
This quiet memorial is a tribute to her legacy. It stands as a reminder. A reminder of a woman who dared to challenge convention. A woman who stood up for her beliefs. A woman who used her platform to advocate for change. The Anna Thomsen Milburn Memorial Plaque is more than just a stone. It is a testament to a remarkable life. A life lived with passion and conviction. A life well worth remembering.