Eliza DeWolfe: The Scandalous Feminist Who Shaped the 1860s PNW

In the rugged 1800s Pacific Northwest, one woman defied societal norms with bloomers, boldness, and a passion for equality. Meet Eliza DeWolfe, a trailblazer whose story still inspires.

Eliza Woodard Hurd DeWolfe’s life was anything but ordinary. Born in a time when women were expected to remain silent and obedient, Eliza charted her own course, embracing free love and feminism in the face of fierce opposition.

Her journey began with heartbreak, as she turned to spiritualism after losing her first husband. But grief didn’t define her—courage did. Eliza became a staunch advocate for women’s rights, challenging norms in ways both subtle and scandalous.

Riding Through Scandal In 1862, Eliza shocked Olympia by riding through town in bloomers—pants considered outrageous for a woman at the time. Her actions weren’t just about clothing; they were a declaration of independence from restrictive societal norms.

Free Love and Conjugal Alliances Eliza and her second husband, Charles Henry DeWolfe, publicly announced their "conjugal alliance," rejecting traditional marriage customs. This bold statement symbolized the free love philosophy: personal relationships free from legal and religious constraints.

Fighting for Suffrage Eliza’s activism extended beyond personal rebellion. She became a prominent figure in the dress reform and suffrage movements, advocating for women’s autonomy. Her public demonstrations, including walking through San Francisco in bloomers, cemented her role as a pioneer of change.

Through each bold act, Eliza proved that small, symbolic gestures could ignite societal transformation. Her courage to live authentically in a repressive era resonates even today.

Takeaway: Eliza’s life reminds us that defiance of norms isn’t just an act of rebellion—it’s a step toward progress. What societal expectations will you challenge?

Discover more about Eliza’s extraordinary life and the untold stories of the 1800s Pacific Northwest. Listen to the full episode at rainydayrabbitholes.com. Support our ad-free content on Patreon and help us uncover more hidden histories.