Digital Repository

Miriam "Ma" Ferguson

Miriam Amanda Wallace wasn't considering a career in politics when she enrolled at Baylor Female College in the 1890s. She married James Ferguson in 1899 and settled down to raise a family. But instead of enjoying a quiet life at home, Miriam became the first woman governor of Texas.

Image: Miriam Ferguson seated in an armchair. Courtesy of the Bell County Musem.

Audio: Houston Public Media

Photograph of Miriam Ferguson seated in an armchair