Suffrage Torch

The torch was the idea of Harriot Stanton Blatch who wanted a visual publicity stunt to draw attention to the suffrage campaigns.

The torch traveled throughout New York state and was handed over to Mina Van Winkle, head of the New Jersey suffragists.

The suffrage torch drew a good deal of publicity during its use in the campaigns taking place in those three states.

[3] It was meant to be a way to increase publicity, as a "mega-stunt" for the women's suffrage campaigns in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania areas.

[6] Blatch traveled with Louisine Havemeyer around New York, starting in Long Island in June and early July 1915, bringing the torch with them to campaign stops.

[14] This information was relayed by a man in a dinghy, called the De Gink and piloted by "Fatty" Willy.

[1] At a meeting at the Atlantic Highlands on August 18, 1915, the torch was stolen from a car when it was under the care of Alyse Gregory.

[19] The New York Sun noted that the Suffrage Torch drew a good deal of attention during the 1915 campaign.

"Mrs H. O. Havemeyer, of New York, passing the Suffrage Torch to Mrs. Van Winkle, of New Jersey." August 7, 1915
"Mrs H. O. Havemeyer , of New York, passing the Suffrage Torch to Mrs. Van Winkle , of New Jersey." August 7, 1915
"She Comes Tomorrow With Suffrage Torch", Harriot Stanton Blatch , July 30, 1915
Louisine Havemeyer with the Liberty Torch in 1919.