In honor of Women's History Month, we are celebrating the Augusta women that contributed to the history and experiences of Augusta's River Region.
That photo above? That's Augusta's very own, _thechristanway posted in front of one of our newest murals, "Yes You Can" painted by local artist, Leonard 'Porkchop' Zimmerman.
Notable Augusta Women
Sharon Jones was an American, Grammy nominated soul & funk singer born in Augusta, Ga. She was the lead singer of Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings funk band based in Brooklyn, New York.
Lucy C Laney was an American educator who founded the first school for black children in Augusta, Georgia in 1883.
Emily Tubman was an American philanthropist. She became a prominent socialite and businesswoman in Augusta, Georgia, and was an early supporter of the Christian Church.
Brenda Lee was an important pioneer of early rock and roll, she achieved international popularity during the 1960s. Her big break came in 1956 at the Bell Auditorium in Augusta where she performed Hank Williams's "Jambalaya."
Butterfly McQueen was an award-winning American actress that called Augusta, Ga home. Originally a dancer, McQueen first appeared in the Gone with the Wind film as Prissy.
Judy Woodruff is a U.S. broadcast journalist who has worked in network, cable, and public television news since 1976. She is the anchor and managing editor of PBS NewsHour. Woodruff attended a local Richmond County high school prior to her settling in Augusta for some time.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
Don't forget to add the Augusta Museum of History to your itinerary, their Local Legends exhibition tells the story of famous and notable Augustan's including the women who have called Augusta home and made an impact on our local, national and international history. This exhibition includes talented musicians, singers, authors, actors, athletes, artists, and notables who have excelled in other fields such as journalists, scientists, and politicians.
Aisha Ashley
Aisha is the former Marketing & Sales Coordinator at Destination Augusta.