Anna Elizabeth Dickinson (1842-1932)
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
Anna Dickinson, a nationally renowned orator, writer, and advocate for the rights of women, Blacks, and workers, lived here. At 21 she became the first woman to address Congress, a speech attended by President Lincoln.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Anna Elizabeth Dickinson rose from Philadelphia to become one of the most electrifying public speakers of the Civil War era, championing the rights of women, African Americans, and working people. At just 21 she became the first woman to address the U.S. Congress, delivering a speech attended by President Lincoln himself. In an age when women were rarely permitted a public platform, her voice carried into the halls of national power.
Why it matters
Dickinson proved that a woman's oratory could shape wartime politics, helping open the door for later generations of female reformers and public figures.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- Bridgette Mayer0.9 mi away · 709 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- African American Museum in Philadelphia1.0 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Congress Hall1.0 mi away · Philadelphia, PA
- Liberty Bell Center1.0 mi away · 526 Market Street, Philadelphia
- Independence Hall1.1 mi away · 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Independence Visitor Center1.1 mi away · 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- One Liberty Observation Deck0.2 mi away
- The Universal Sphere0.3 mi away
- Reading Terminal0.6 mi away
- Chinatown Friendship Gate0.8 mi away · 10th and Arch Street
- Italian market1.0 mi away · Christian Street
- Liberty Bell1.0 mi away · 526 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
Food & drink
- Munchie’s Cafe0.9 mi away · 728 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Philly Pretzel Factory0.9 mi away
- Burger King0.9 mi away
- Fat Salmon0.9 mi away · 719 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Talula's Daily0.9 mi away · 208 West Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Maya's Pizza & Grill0.9 mi away · 716 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown - Center City0.3 mi away · 219 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City0.3 mi away · 237 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Holiday Inn Express0.4 mi away · 1305-11 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Residence Inn Philadelphia Center City0.4 mi away · 1 East Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Fairfield Inn & Suites0.5 mi away · 261 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA
- The Notary Hotel0.5 mi away · 21 North Juniper Street, Philadelphia
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Related people
- · Anna Elizabeth Dickinson
- · Abraham Lincoln
Themes & tags
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