Emma Grigsby Meharg

Meharg graduated from Southwestern Normal College in 1895 and married Samuel W. Meharg on June 24, 1902, coming to Plainview as a bride when he became principal of its public school. As secretary of state in 1925 and 1926 she recommended a civil service system for state employees, an elected rather than appointed secretary of state and a higher salary than the $2,000 the 1876 constitution allowed; later legislatures adopted many of her proposals. She also had historical records brought out of storage and restored. She was a Texas Tech regent from 1932 to 1937.

What the plaque says

Emma Grigsby Meharg Born in Lynnville, Tenn.; moved to Texas with parents, Jasper N. and Mary A. (Calvert) Grigsby, 1883. Graduated from college, became a teacher, married Samuel W. Meharg. Came to Plainview (1902), where she and husband were educators. She helped organize clubs, First Presbyterian Church, U.S.A, civic endeavors. Had daughter and son. Won international renown, 1925, as Texas' first woman Secretary of State, by appointment of first woman Governor, Miriam A. Ferguson. Erected - 1972

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Rawleigh Porteus Smyth — steps away
• W. J. "Jeff" Williams — steps away
• Edwin Lowden Lowe — steps away
• Plainview Cemetery and Memorial Park — steps away