Jump to Navigation

Carry A. Nation - Part 1

Carry Nation holding a hatchet and Bible.The Famous and Original Bar Room Smasher

How Well Do You Know Carry Nation?

Women were the driving force in reform movements in the early 20th century, particularly the campaign to prohibit alcohol. They founded the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) in the 1870s.

Kansas women smashed saloons as early as 1855. Their temperance efforts were rewarded in 1880 when Kansas became the first state to adopt a constitutional amendment prohibiting alcohol.

Reformers remained active even after the amendment was passed because the prohibition laws were not always enforced. Annoyed by saloons or "joints" still in operation, Carry Nation took action. Tireless in her efforts, the reformer traveled around the country, Canada, and the British Isles. She was confident her efforts would "Carry A. Nation."

Play the Carry A. Nation Game



  2. Hatchetations and Home Defenders - Why reformers smashed saloons.
  9. Temperance Timeline - Timeline of alcohol reform.

Contact us at KansasMuseum@kshs.org