Massachusetts Tin Suffrage Bird

Massachusetts was one of four Eastern states that held referenda in 1915 on the suffrage question, the others being Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. Local activists coordinated a massive publicity campaign for that state’s referendum that included “Votes for Women” kites, propaganda films, and a pilgrimage to Worcester.

One of the most attractive products of their efforts was this nearly one-foot tall die-cut tin bird in blue and yellow. A hole was made in the middle of the bird, allowing it to be nailed to barns, fences, garages, and even telephone poles, with the requirement that such placement be done outside of city limits. Approximately 100,000 were manufactured, although that figure may have been inflated by proponents, and distribution took place on July 17, 1915, which workers termed “Suffrage Blue Bird Day.”