Florence Bayard Hilles (1865-1954) - Find a Grave Memorial

Suffragist. Florence Bayard Hilles was born on October 17, 1865. Her father had served as Secretary of State under Grover Cleveland. She married William S. Hilles in October 1898. After Florence heard Mabel Vernon speak at the 1913 Delaware State Fair, she became involved with suffrage activism. Florence organized Wilmington's first suffrage parade. On May 9, Hilles led a delegation of Delaware women to a significant national parade in Washington, D.C. Later, Hilles served as president of the Delaware branch of NWP, and a member of the Party's executive board. Florence was a participant in the"Suffrage Special" cross-country railroad trip in April-May 1916. Florence took part in the "Silent Sentinels." She also took part in the Watchfires protests. After the ratification of the 19th Amendment, Florence continued to work for women's rights. She was described as "one of the most popular speakers in the Woman's Party" in 1928. From 1933 through 1938, Florence served as the Party's National Chairman. She later served as an honorary chairman. She also devoted time to the International Women's Suffrage Alliance and Women's International League for Peace and Freedom.

Bio by: Joz