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1916 West Virginia Gubernatorial Candidate Opinions


The Weston Democrat, September 22, 1916

[Letter from Democratic Candidate Hon. John J. Cornwell]

Mrs. Ellis A. Yost,
Morgantown W. Va.

My Dear Mrs. Yost:

I want to say that the files of my newspaper will show that at least a dozen years ago I was an advocate of woman suffrage; long before the Progressive party was born and before Colonel Roosevelt, Justice Hughes or President Wilson had given any intimation that they favored it. I have advocated it in public addresses at intervals for ten years, especially before teachers’ instututes [sic] in this county. I advocated the submission of the Amendment to the voters and shall vote for the amendment and support it.

Very sincerely yours,

(Signed) John J. Cornwell.


The Weston Independent, October 24, 1916

[Letter from Republican Candidate Judge Ira E. Robinson]

Grafton, W. Va.
September 16, 1916.

Mrs. Ellis A. Yost,
Morgantown, W. Va.

My dear Mrs. Yost:

I have been so occupied in meeting campaign engagements that I could not make prompt reply to your letter asking me as to my views on woman suffrage. I feel that you appreciate my situation and will pardon the delay.

Personally I shall vote for the proposed amendment to our State constitution granting equal suffrage.

With sincere regards, I am

Very truly yours,

(Signed) IRA E. ROBINSON.


"Fighting the Long Fight" Chapter 4