Winslow, Arkansas Celebrates the Legacy of the "Petticoat Government"
WINSLOW, Ark. — April 7, 2025 — This year marks the 100th anniversary of Winslow’s historic "Petticoat Government," the first all-female governing body in Arkansas and the second in the United States, which governed from 1925 to 1927.
During the 1920s, Winslow was a charming resort town known for its cool climate, attracting visitors from neighboring states. In a bold move, a group of local women decided to run for office—much to the initial disbelief of local men who doubted their capabilities.
Virginia Maud Dunlap Duncan, who served as mayor, was pivotal to this movement. Not only was she the editor and publisher of the Winslow American newspaper, but she also managed the town’s only pharmacy. Historian Rachel Whitaker and Jo Anne Kyle, curator at the Winslow City Museum, emphasized the significant impact Duncan and her council members made. They undertook critical projects, including establishing a new road for improved access and beautifying the town, demonstrating their organizational skills and commitment to community improvement.
Despite the skepticism they faced, the women’s governance gained respect, achieving many essential goals, such as donating the town’s small jail and collaborating with local lumber companies to aid community repairs.
As Winslow prepares to celebrate the centennial, the town will honor these pioneering women with a variety of events, including a private lunch for former councilwomen, a parade, a reenactment of the induction, and the unveiling of a plaque at the Helen Dunlap Memorial School.
While only a few buildings from that era remain, the legacy of the Petticoat Government continues to inspire, reminding Winslow of the power of community and the trailblazing spirit of its women.
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