Temperance and Prohibition: Women's History

Mary Livermore @

Frances Willard

A biography of Frances Willard, long-time president of the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) and an advocate of women's rights and woman suffrage.

Early History at the WCTU

Official history from the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, including a list of social reforms the WCTU has helped work for through its 125+ years.

Growth of WCTU Membership 1879-1921

Statistical demonstration of the growth of women activists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

History of the Anti-Saloon League

Well-done essay on the history (1893-1933) of this primarily-male-run reform organization. Hyperlinks for more details on the leaders and some contemporary articles.

Nation, Carrie

Carrie Nation is one of the best known anti-saloon crusaders, taking temperance campaigning to a new level as she tried to close establishments that sold liquor.

Prohibition Party History

A history of another organization, mostly male-led, which drew many rank-and-file women activists.

Willard, Frances: An Address to the WCTU

In 1893, the First Lady of Temperance spoke to her "beloved comrades of the white ribbon army."  Though this speech is a detailed report of organizational needs and priorities, her persuasive and powerful personality comes through.

Willard, Frances: WCTU Biography

From the WCTU's own web site, a brief biography of Willard and a photograph.

Willard, Frances: We Sang the Rock of Ages

Willard on one tactic of the temperance movement: praying in saloons.

Woman's Temperance Crusade, 1873

A brief history of this early temperance campaign, from the official site of the modern-day WCTU.