Because of Her Story
Because of Her Story
To create a more equitable and just American society, the Smithsonian American Women's History Initiative will create, disseminate, and amplify the historical record of the accomplishments of American women.
Muriel Siebert
I ARRIVED IN New York with $500, a used Studebaker and a dream. As a financial analyst, I earned 60 percent of what men were paid. I asked a client where I could go to find equal pay. He said, “You won’t. Buy a seat. Work for yourself.”
My application for a seat on the New York Stock Exchange turned Wall Street upside down. Never had a woman applied.
I bought the seat. In 1967, I was the only woman among 1,365 men. Within six months, I had a legitimate office. You have to have faith in yourself and believe “I can do it.”
Muriel Siebert’s portrait is at the Smithsonian. It will be used to tell her story and other women’s stories of challenging the rules.
Credits
Photo: Muriel Siebert, the 38-year-old analyst, is pleased at hearing she was elected to the New York Stock Exchange, January 16, 1968. Getty Images, Bettman/Contributor
Content: Muriel Siebert, “Muriel Siebert: First Lady of Wall Street,” Makers Profile, 2013
News
Read about the Smithsonian's latest scholarship on women's history, get inspired with stories from our collections, and see other updates.
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CreditsElisabeth West FitzHugh examining an Islamic manuscript. Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Conservation and Scientific Research department files, 1958-01, photograph by Ray Schwartz.
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Discover Her Story
In these themes you will find stories and objects from women who have shaped America as we know it through their work, creativity, and resolve.
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Collections
The Smithsonian’s collections include iconic objects that tell the stories of American women, their struggles, and their accomplishments.
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Four Cent Martha Washington Stamp
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Marcel-Curler from a Travel Hair Care Kit Used by Anna Mae Queen Holmes
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Dolores Huerta
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