Remarkable Georgia Women

Author Sara Hines Martin, whose work has graced the pages of the North Georgia Journal of History, is well-steeped in the history of our state and her choices of women are a good cross-section of the famous and not-so-famous women from Georgia who have had a tremendous impact on either the state or the nation.Don't buy this book expecting an in-depth look at each of these women. That would be impossible to do given the 192 page length. What this is a a good overview of these people, including the essential biographical data, key accomplishments, and personal highlights, but rarely delving into new territory.I would recommend this book as an inspiration for young adults or perhaps a reader whose is acquiring a knowledge of Georgia history.

Southern women have been stereotypically depicted as delicate, demure,and passive objects placed on a pedestal for adoration. They were not to be taken seriously. Sara Hines Martin completely destroys such a fictitious view through her insightful vignettes of thirteen Georgia women. These women were determined, creative, shrewed and had a self-confidence that puts even modern women to shame. Who are these women? They are Native-American, African-American and Euro-American women from Georgia who defied all the odds. Some are household names while others are lesser known but the qualities all of them share are the ability to survive, making the best out of adversity, and creating a lasting heritage that survives today. Meet Leila Ross Wilburn, the second woman in Georgia to be licensed as an architect. Such a woman in a field dominated by men was a rarity and this woman proved that she could not only compete with her colleagues but succeed way beyond her imagination. Listen to the voice of Gertrude Pridgette who helped spread the sound of a distinctive art form beyond the confines of Columbus, GA. To many she was unattractive, flashy, and bisexual but she could belt out those Blues. We know her as Ma Rainey, the Mother of the Blues. These are just a few of the colorful and imaginitive women profiled in this book. Rebecca Latimer Felton faced the destruction of her home, death of her children and great poverty. Yet this same woman became the first female senator representing Georgia. This is an enjoyable book that gives excellent profiles on these outstanding women. Sara Hines Martin provides the reader with a good working bibliography of each woman for those who desire further study of these great achievers. I highly recommend it for young people and adults who are interested in the legacy and great achievement's of Georgia's women.