The first monument honoring a woman is headed to the Kentucky State Capitol.
Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman announced this week that a statue of Barren County native Nettie Depp will be unveiled in August 2021.
Depp was a pioneer in education as a teacher and principal. She was also elected school superintendent in 1913, seven years before women earned full voting rights.
“A failure to observe women in places of honor narrows the vision of our youth and reveals a lack of understanding of American history regarding women’s work, sacrifice, and the immeasurable and timeless contribution to society’s advancement," stated Coleman.
The announcement of Depp’s statue comes as the U.S. celebrates the Women’s Suffrage Centennial on August 18.
Efforts to honor Depp began in 2014, nearly a year before the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights asked state and local governments to erect more statues of notable women.
A historical marker honoring Depp is located at the Barren County Courthouse. She is also a member of WKU’s Hall of Distinguished Alumni.
