Martha Hughes Cannon

Martha Hughes Cannon did more before breakfast than most did in a lifetime. A Welsh immigrant who earned a medical degree and two more besides, she practiced as a physician in Salt Lake City — and in 1896 she ran for the state senate against a field that included her own husband, and won, becoming the first woman ever elected a state senator in the United States. In office she wrote Utah's early public-health and sanitation laws and served on its first Board of Health. Her home and office stood near this spot.

What the plaque says

In memory of Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon July 1, 1857 — July 10, 1932 Pioneer Doctor — First Woman State Senator in the U.S. Author of Utah sanitation laws Member of first State Board of Health Her office and home located near this spot 11 South First West

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

• Temple Square — 0.3 mi
  The spiritual and architectural heart of Salt Lake City
• Salt Lake City — 0.3 mi
  Utah's capital and largest city — where the Wasatch Range meets the Great Salt Lake.
• Ensign Peak — 1.5 mi
  A short hike to the spot where Brigham Young surveyed the valley
• Liberty Park — 2.0 mi
  Salt Lake Citys beloved 80-acre urban park since 1882

More markers nearby

• Nauvoo Bell Tower & Relief Society Memorial — steps away
• Civil Engineering Landmark — steps away
• Assembly Hall — steps away
• Handcart Pioneer Monument — steps away