The Riveting Rosies

Mary Ellen Pleasant: The Enigmatic Trailblazer Shaping California’s Civil Rights Landscape

Welcome back, Rosies! Today, we dive into the captivating life of Mary Ellen Pleasant, an enigmatic figure whose journey from Nantucket to San Francisco makes her a groundbreaking feminist icon. Born into mystery and uncertainty, Mary defied societal norms, becoming a pioneering force in business, civil rights, and the abolitionist movement.

A Journey from Nantucket:

Mary’s origins may be shrouded in ambiguity, but her journey began in Nantucket, Massachusetts, where she worked as a domestic servant for the Hussey-Gardner family. Raised amidst Quakers and abolitionists, Mary’s exposure to anti-slavery sentiments shaped her values and ignited her passion for justice.

Abolitionist Roots:

Marriage to James Smith, a contractor, carpenter, and former plantation owner, further fueled Mary’s commitment to the abolitionist cause. The couple worked as conductors on the Underground Railroad, aiding fugitive slaves on their journey to freedom. Tragically, James’s death in 1848 left Mary with a substantial inheritance, which she used to continue their shared mission against slavery.

Escape to New Orleans:

Fleeing the scrutiny of slavers, Mary and her new husband, John James (JJ) Pleasant, ventured to New Orleans. Rumored connections with the famed Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau added an air of mystique to Mary’s story, suggesting a friendship that may have extended to the exchange of mystical knowledge.

The Gold Rush and Wealth Accumulation:

Mary’s arrival in San Francisco during the Gold Rush marked a turning point in her life. Exploiting the gender imbalance, she became the subject of a bidding war for her culinary skills. Using her position to gather information, Mary invested wisely, amassing significant wealth. Her employment with banking magnate Thomas Bell allowed her to exert influence and contribute to the establishment of the Bank of California.

A Philanthropist and Civil Rights Activist:

Despite her success, Mary remained committed to social causes. She invested in properties, businesses, and supported the civil rights movement. Her pivotal role in a 1866 legal battle against streetcar segregation marked a historic victory, earning her the title of the mother of the civil rights movement in California.

Legacy and Smear Campaign:

Mary’s legacy, however, was marred by a smear campaign, linking her to the suspicious death of Thomas Bell. Accusations of murder and the use of voodoo practices tarnished her reputation, leading to financial ruin. Mary Ellen Pleasant, a trailblazer in business and civil rights, passed away penniless in 1904.

Conclusion:

Mary Ellen Pleasant’s life embodies resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to justice. As we reflect on her journey, let’s celebrate this Riveting Rosie who paved the way for future generations. Mary’s legacy serves as a testament to the strength of women in the face of adversity and their ability to shape the course of history.

References:

Marion Carpenter: Pioneering Photographer and Unsung Heroine of the Press

We now pivot to shine a spotlight on Marion Carpenter, the trailblazing photographer who defied gender norms to become the first female national press photographer covering White House activities. Marion’s journey from St. Paul, Minnesota, to the hallowed halls of the White House is a testament to her resilience, talent, and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field.

Early Life and Career Beginnings:

Marion Carpenter, born to Lillian B. Marion and Harry Carpenter in St. Paul, Minnesota, began her career as a nurse but discovered her passion for photography through the St. Paul Camera Club. Her move to Washington DC in 1944 marked the beginning of her career in news photography, working for the Washington Times Herald and later joining the international news photo syndicate.

Breaking Barriers at the White House:

Marion’s determination led her to become the first female member of the White House News Photographers Association, covering the Truman presidency. Despite facing rampant sexism, she garnered recognition for her professional approach and talent, even winning an award for a photograph of President Truman playing the piano for actress Lauren Bacall.

Challenges and Personal Struggles:

Marion’s journey took a challenging turn when she faced an undisclosed affair that led to the loss of her job at the White House. Despite this setback, Marion married and faced hardships, including an abusive marriage on the West Coast. Divorcing her Navy officer husband, she returned to Washington DC, married radio announcer John Anderson, and later moved to Denver.

Later Years and Legacy:

Returning to St. Paul, Marion worked as a nurse, rejoined the St. Paul Camera Club, and established her own wedding photography business. Her life took a quiet turn, caring for her mother until her death in the 1970s, engaging in unconventional hobbies like racing homing pigeons and showing German Shepherds.

Marion’s legacy is largely unknown due to her ahead-of-her-time career and its short duration. The St. Paul Camera Club commemorates her contributions with the annual Marion Carpenter Award, honoring monochrome photojournalism prints.

Tragically, Marion passed away in 2002, alone in her St. Paul home, leaving behind a legacy that is slowly being unearthed.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marion_Carpenter
https://barbarabellphotography.com/marion-carpenter-first-female-white-house-press-photographer/
https://whnpa.org/remembering-marion-carpenter/