Edith Nourse Rogers

Rogers was an American social welfare volunteer and politician, who was one of the first women to serve in the United States Congress, serving from June 30, 1925 until her death on September 20, 1960. As of 2006, she was still the longest serving Congresswoman. During her 35 years in the House of Representatives, she was a powerful voice for veterans, sponsoring legislation that included the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (commonly known as the G.I. Bill of Rights), that provided educational and financial benefits for soldiers returning home from World War II, and the 1943 bill that created the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). Since that time, women have become an important part of all branches of armed services. Her deep concern for the well-being and comfort of all veterans led her, as a personal priority, to make frequent visits to veterans’ hospitals.

Mrs. Rogers also fought child labor, advocated for the 48 hour work week for women at a time when there were no restrictions, and pushed for equal pay for equal work.