Patty Prather Thum: Artist and Activist
Louisvillian Patty Prather Thum (1853-1926) was not only a renowned artist and illustrator, but was also a member of the Women's Club of Louisville and an outspoken advocate for women's suffrage.
Thum graduated from Vassar College and studied at the Art Students' League in New York before returning to Louisville in 1870 to open her own studio, which she maintained for 35 years. She exhibited her work across the country and contributed to many prominent art magazines throughout her life. Thum also taught budding artists in Louisville, served as president of the Louisville Art League, and was the art critic for The Louisville Herald until her retirement in 1925.
Thum is just one of the many a professional woman who supported themselves financially while also being devoted to progressive reform and the suffrage movement.
