Photo Helen H. Gardener

Timeline

Lifetime: 1853 - 1925 Passed: ≈ 99 years ago

Title

Rationalist, Political Activist, Author

Country/Nationality

United States
Wikipedia

Helen H. Gardener

Helen Hamilton Gardener, born Alice Chenoweth, was an American author, rationalist public intellectual, political activist, and suffragist. She was active from 1885 to 1924 and played a significant role in the freethought and women's suffrage movements.

Gardener's early years were marked by a strong education and an interest in science and sociology. She became known for her public lectures and writings, addressing skeptical themes and advocating for women's rights. Her literary career included books like "Men, Women, and Gods" and "Is This Your Son, My Lord?" which critiqued societal norms and advocated for women's equality.

Later, she entered the political arena, serving in various suffrage organizations and becoming the first woman in the United States Civil Service Commission. Gardener's legacy includes her contributions to feminism and her pioneering role in the American civil service.

Books by Helen H. Gardener

Pray You, Sir, Whose Daughter? Cover image

Pray You, Sir, Whose Daughter?

Novel
Marriage Poverty Communism Legislations Women

Twenty-year-old Gertrude Foster has had the sheltered upbringing typical of women of her class. Yet, she questions the restrictive norms with which she has been raised and does not wish to marry a man who will not see her as an equal. Gertrude receiv...

Men, Women, and Gods, and Other Lectures Cover image

Men, Women, and Gods, and Other Lectures

History Philosophy Political Science Non-Fiction Speech Essays Religion
19th century Religion Women's Rights Church Feminism Lectures Activism Wit Gender roles Social reform Freethought Critical Analysis

Helen H. Gardener's 'Men, Women, and Gods, and Other Lectures' is a collection of speeches delivered by the prominent feminist and freethought activist in the late 19th century. Her lectures offer a sharp critique of the role of women in society and...