Program

National Votes for Women Trail

Subject

People

Location

5 Halter Rd, Glenmont, NY 12077, USA

Lat/Long

42.6094, -73.76865

Grant Recipient

National Collaborative for Women's History Sites

Born in 1807 in Herkimer County, Elisha Powell Hurlbut published several notable papers throughout his life and career as a judge, lecturer and author, perhaps none more remembered than Essays on Human Rights and Their Political Guarantees. Contained within the collection was an essay arguing for the constitutional and property rights of women. Along with his writing, Hurlbut also served as a member of the State Suffrage Committee from 1880 to 1882.

Hurlbut’s support of the women’s rights movement—whether through print or lecture—was often framed from a legal perspective; which makes sense, given his extensive legal training and career. After finishing his study of law under the mentorship of Owen Grey and Judge Arfaxed Loomis, Hurlbut then completed the mandatory seven-year clerkship before being admitted to the Bar. Afterwards, he practiced law with a judge in New York City where he quickly rose to prominence following his arguments in several high profile cases at the time.

Along with a successful legal career, which would see him serve on the New York State Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals, Hurlbut was also a noted political and social activist. He delivered a number of speeches pertaining to those beliefs he held dear, including equal suffrage for women, property rights and the legal protections and rights afforded to women. His Essays on Human Rights and Their Political Guarantees influenced many and was well-regarded in legal circles. It was said Hurlbut claimed he’d first sat down determined to compose an essay arguing against women’s rights; however, as he wrote he quickly found flaws in his arguments and reasoning, leading to the drastic reversal of his stance.

He passed away on Sept 5^th, 1889. This marker is located at his former estate, and commemorates his activism and support of the women’s suffrage movement.