May 3rd, 1913

On May 3rd, 1913, marchers arranged themselves, as the New York Times described, "In straight and graceful lines which were brightened with resplendent decorations, passed in attractive and impressive dignity up Fifth Avenue...it was the greatest spectacular triumph ever won by women in this country in their pursuit of the ballot."

Inspired by a massive suffrage march in Washington D.C. in March of the same year, this parade was intended to further press the issue of enfranchisement. The parade's Grand Marshal was Inez MIlholland, a lawyer and suffrage activist, who lead the parade on a white horse. Assembled in formation, the suffragettes maintained strict order during the march, the participants were ordered to keep: "Eyes to front. Heads Erect. Shoulders back. Dignity and Silence." Beginning in Washington Square Park, the marchers proceeded in unseasonable heat (almost 87 degrees.)

Following disruptions of previous parades by "Antis" (people opposed to Women's suffrage), the 1913 parade had widespread police protection to prevent the harassment of marchers. Counter-protesters mixed with the thousands of spectators, but it was noted that there was no significant disruption.

Banners and signs were common throughout the parade, the New York Times noting that there was more "punch in them than usual. A selection included: "More Ballots: Less Bullets." "Politics Govern Even the Purity of the Milk Supply. It is Not "Outside the Home." But Inside the Baby." "To Create Sex Antagonism Is an Unwise Precedent." "Let the People Rule; Women are People." and notably "Hasn't Your Wife Brains Enough to Vote?" "No Government Ever Yielded a Right Unless Bullied into It."

While the "Antis" and the New York Times (based on the Anti's count) tallied the parade at 9,613, however, other sources put it at 30,000. Suffrage groups from across the United States joined the parade as well as groups from abroad such as Sweden and England.

Parades like this were vital for pushing the conversation on women's rights forward.