Here’s a list of famous women in history who are from Columbus. Do you know them?
From silent actresses to musicians and painters, Columbus women have made an impact on the nation throughout history. With today being the last day of women’s history month, it’s a good time to take a look back and recall some of Columbus’ most influential women.
- Juliette Compton: Born in Columbus in May 1899, Compton was a model for illustrator Harrison Fisher, and began her acting career in the silent film era. Her acting career concluded with her role as Lady Spencer in the 1941 film That Hamilton Woman. She died in March 1989.
- Justina Huff: Justina was born in Columbus in September 1893. She became a silent film actress known for her roles in Tess of the d’Ubervilles (1913) and The Man Inside (1916) before her death in June 1977.
- Louise Huff: Justina’s younger sister, Louise was born in November 1895 in Columbus. Also a silent actress, she starred in films such as Seventeen (1916) and Heart of Gold (1919). She died in August 1973.
- Mary Ann Williams: Born in August of 1821, Williams and her husband lived in Columbus after the Civil War when she wrote a letter in her role as Secretary of the Ladies’ Memorial Association that was published in more than two dozen newspapers requesting that one day be set aside each year to decorate the soldiers’ graves. The day later became Memorial Day.
- Amy Sherald: Born in Columbus in 1973, Sherald is known for her portraits depicting African Americans using a simplified realism style. One of her most famous paintings is the Official Portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama.
- Gertrude “Ma” Rainey: Known as the Mother of the Blues, Rainey was born in Columbus in April 1886. Rainey’s powerful vocal abilities helped her sign a recording contract with Paramount and record music with other artists including Louis Armstrong.
Brittany McGee
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer