Grace Raymond Hebard was born on February 7, 1861, in Clinton, Iowa. She was the daughter of Rev. George Diah Alonzo Hebard and Margaret E. Dominick Hebard. Growing up in a family that valued education and learning, Grace showed an early interest in books and history. She was encouraged by her parents to pursue her academic interests, which would eventually lead her to a career as a historian.
Hebard attended the University of Iowa, where she studied civil engineering. Her time at the university sparked her interest in political science and history, leading her to pursue a PhD in political science from Illinois Wesleyan University. It was during her time at Illinois Wesleyan that she began to delve into research on the history of the American West, a subject that would become her life's work.
Grace Raymond Hebard was a pioneering figure in the fields of history and suffrage. She was a dedicated scholar, writing numerous works on Western history, including The Government of Wyoming, Washakie, and The Pathbreakers from River to Ocean. However, her most famous work was her 1933 book, Sacajawea, which focused on the life of the Shoshone woman who accompanied the Lewis and Clark expedition.
In addition to her work as a historian, Hebard was also an active suffragist. She believed strongly in the rights of women to participate in the political process and fought tirelessly for equal voting rights. As a member of the Wyoming Historical Association, she played a key role in establishing the Wyoming branch of the Daughters of the American Revolution, an organization that supported women's suffrage.
Grace Raymond Hebard's contributions to the fields of history and suffrage have had a lasting impact. She paved the way for future generations of historians and activists, showing that dedication and hard work can lead to significant change. Her legacy continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
Hebard remained unmarried throughout her life, dedicating her time and energy to her academic and activist pursuits. She passed away on February 20, 1936, leaving behind a rich legacy of scholarship and advocacy.
Grace Raymond Hebard was a trailblazer in the fields of history and suffrage. Her tireless dedication to research and activism has left an indelible mark on American history, inspiring generations to come.
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