“WHEN WOMEN VOTE”: A new online exhibit at the Old Barracks Museum focuses on the history of the anti-suffrage movement, the women of the Old Barracks Association, and Trenton. It can be viewed at barracks.org/whenwomenvote.

The Old Barracks Museum has announced the opening of a new online exhibit titled “When Women Vote: The Old Barracks and the Anti-Suffrage Movement.” It can be viewed at barracks.org/whenwomenvote.

This timely exhibit, which is being released during the centennial celebration of the 19th Amendment, explores a conflicted aspect of history. The Old Barracks’ origin is rooted in the military struggles of the 18th century, but the building also has a unique history tied to a group of affluent Trentonian women.

In 1902, The Old Barracks Association (OBA) was founded entirely by women living in the Trenton area with the goal of preserving the historic structure. These women were from well-connected families and as such, were expected to be involved in the local community and pursue philanthropic projects. Despite their personal stories not always fitting the early 20th century ideal of womanhood, many of the founding members of the OBA were staunchly opposed to the idea of women having the right to vote. This exhibit aims to explore their story and reasons for supporting the anti-suffrage movement.

The Old Barracks Museum invites everyone to visit barracks.org/whenwomenvote to learn more about the history of the anti-suffrage movement, the Old Barracks Association, and Trenton. The 19th Amendment is undoubtedly a success story in the history of America, but it is important to preserve and understand all sides of history, and this exhibit intends to provide another side to the story of women’s suffrage.