The Riveting Rosies Podcast

Henrietta Duterte & Sophia Hayden


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Henrietta Smith Bowers Duterte was the first woman mortuary owner in 19th-century America. From her fashionable upbringing to her marriage to Haitian American undertaker Francis Duterte, Henrietta's story is one of resilience and advocacy.

After tragic losses, Henrietta fearlessly took over her husband's undertaking business, becoming America's pioneering female mortician. Her mortuary provided timely service and served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, hiding runaway slaves in caskets or funeral processions. Henrietta's success enabled her to generously support her community, donating to organizations and leaving an indelible mark on Philadelphia's history.

Sophia Hayden was an extraordinary architect who left an indelible mark on the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Despite tremendous adversity, including rampant sexism & underfunding, Sophia’s groundbreaking design for the Woman's Building defied expectations and celebrated women's accomplishments. 

Despite facing obstacles and ultimately being let go from the project, her legacy continues to inspire architects and feminists alike.

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The Riveting Rosies PodcastBy The Riveting Rosies