Artifacts
The daughter of William Jennings Bryan of Nebraska, Ruth Bryan Owen of Florida followed her father’s example by pursuing a reform agenda in the House. This 1932 Visitor’s Gallery pass serves as an apt symbol for her service, as she was dedicated to her constituents, utilizing a “resident secretary” in her large Florida district to poll constituents and keep abreast of local happenings. She also hosted groups of district high school students annually to educate them on public service and enable a visit to the capital.
Visitor’s Gallery Pass, 1932, Collection of the U.S. House of Representatives