In Her Footsteps

Throughout time, women have made history. This site features female history makers with a connection to Illinois. You may know a story well or you may have heard a name and not remember how or why you recognize it. “In Her Footsteps Women’s History Trail” seeks to highlight the stories of Illinois history makers and offer resources for continued learning. 

Women's History Trail

Explore the map of Illinois to discover places where women made history. Use the arrows to scroll through the map. 

Recently Added Women

Read more by clicking on a name or photograph below. 

Women of Illinois

Read more by clicking on a name or photograph below. 

Thank you to our collaborators

Joann Condellone, Vice President of the Friends of the Mother Jones Museum

Bryan Engelbrecht, Carl Sandburg State Historic Site and Bishophill State Historic Site 

Mary Frances, artist and documentary filmmaker

Susan Haake, Curator, Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Linda M. Nance, Founding President, Annie Malone Historical Society 

Sara Phalen, Director, West Chicago City Museum

Emma Olson, Digital Engagement Specialist, Access Living Chicago

Jeff Saulsberry, David Davis Mansion State Historic Site

Additional Photo Credits

Library of Congress

Kankakee County Museum Photo Archive

Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library 

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

University of Chicago Photographic Archive