The first paid female White House staffer was hired on this day in 1890–by a Republican.
At the encouragement of his wife, Carrie, President Benjamin Harrison hired Alice Sanger as a stenographer. That’s pretty much the only information I can find on Ms. Sanger, which was kind of disappointing. Realizing that stenographer isn’t a fancy job title, this hire and other pushes made by Carrie Harrison were pivotal in the advancement of women’s rights.
While this post is to acknowledge Alice Sanger, if you have a moment please click the link for Mrs. Harrison, which details some of her work.
