Trailblazing Woman Shatters Glass Ceiling in Local Politics
Elizabeth DeCourcy made history as the first woman elected to the St. Paul City Council in 1956.
Her groundbreaking victory was what made the way for greater representation and empowerment of women in local politics.
A Private Life, A Public Legacy
While DeCourcy maintained a relatively private personal life, her impact on the public sphere was profound. Little is known about her beyond a single image that appeared in her 2004 obituary, a testament to her understated nature.
“It turns out that Elizabeth DeCourcy was a very private person, and at the time we could only track down one image of her – the one appearing in her 2004 obituary,” said a local historian.
Laying the Groundwork for Women’s Representation
DeCourcy’s foray into politics began when she became the first woman elected to the Ramsey County Commission, breaking barriers and setting the stage for her subsequent historic election to the St. Paul City Council.
“Mrs. Donald M. (Elizabeth) DeCourcy was the first woman elected to the Ramsey County Commission and to the St. Paul City Council,” her obituary read.
“Preceded in death by her parents Bertram H. & Elizabeth M. Talbot; husband Dr. Donald M. DeCourcy Sr., son Dr. Donald M. DeCourcy Jr.; brother Bertram J. Talbot; and sister Cecilia M. Talbot. Survived by her son, Judge Michael T. DeCourcy & wife Merry of St. Paul; grandchildren Elizabeth M. Miller (Mike), Kathryn A. DeCourcy, Michael T. DeCourcy Jr., and Donald M. DeCourcy III,” her obituary further stated.
A Lasting Impact on St. Paul’s Political Landscape
While DeCourcy may have kept a low profile during her lifetime, her impact on the city of St. Paul and its political landscape is undeniable.
Her election to the City Council marked a watershed moment, inspiring countless women to fearlessly pursue their ambitions and make their voices heard in the halls of power.
