Reformatory.

Woman’s Convention

Thursday Morning

Convention was called to order by the President, when several communications were read. Some committees which were appointed last year to prepare addresses reported; the first being an Education by Emily Robinson.

These letters were marked by deep sympathy with the case, and also breathing the most elevated sentiment. The addresses, as you will see, are in all respects what might be expected from the parties to whom those duties were committed.

The church at this moment presents a glorious spectacle. Crowded to its utmost capacity with an audience of the most intelligent and earnest men and women, all faces beaming with joyous gladness, in anticipation of the glorious future. In fact, the ‘good time’ is already realized by the pure in heart, as they mingle in their sympathies and loves.

Mrs. Coe addressed the Convetion with her unusual power, on the wrong of woman being taxed in numerous ways to support the literary and other institutions of the land, and then being deprived of all their benefits. Her speech was brilliant.

Mrs. Tracy spoke on the necessity of a high and thorough education, showing that education was the foundation upon which all reforms must be based. She spoke with clearness and force, making a good impression on the audience.

Sojourner Truth spoke in her own peculiar style, showing that she was a match for most men. She had ploughed, howed, dug, and could eatas much, if she could get it. The power and wit of this remarkable woman convulsed the audience with laughter. I wish I could report every word she said, but I cannot.

Mr. Slicer made some observations on the intellectual equality of the sexes.

At this stage of the meeting, a Committee on Finance, composed of Dr. Brooke, Mr. Baker and Mr. Heaton were appointed for purpose of defraying the expenses of publishing the proceedings of the Convention.

Miss Giddings presented and read an elaborate report on the Common Law.

Marius robinson spoke on the constitutional right fo women to the elective franchise, urging the women to offer their votes at the next Presidential election, and if refused, to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Mrs. Swisshelm showed that the States had the constitutional right to determine who should vote, and they had determined that male citizens alone should vote, preventing the right of appeal.

Mr. Pease spoke on teh wickedness of the license laws.

A poem was read by Marius Robinson, written by George W. Putnam.

The ‘Good time coming’ was sung by the Hutchinsons.

Works Cited

“Reformatory.” The Liberator (Boston, Massachusetts),Friday, June 13, 1851; p. 96; Issue 24. https://archive.org/details/historyofwomansu01stanuoft