Louise Parker Mayo

Louise Parker Mayo was a dedicated suffragist from Framingham, Massachusetts, who played a significant role in the fight for women's voting rights. A former schoolteacher, she balanced her professional life with her responsibilities as a farmer's wife and mother to seven children—five sons and two daughters. Known for her community involvement, she also drove the local school "barge," a horse-drawn wagon that transported children to school.

Her commitment to women's suffrage led her to join the Framingham Equal Suffrage League, where she served on its first executive board. In 1917, she took her activism to the national stage by participating in a pivotal protest organized by the National Woman's Party. On July 14, 1917—Bastille Day—Louise and 15 other women picketed outside the White House, holding signs that read "Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity." Their peaceful demonstration resulted in her arrest on charges of "unlawful assembly" and "obstructing traffic." Louise was sentenced to 60 days at the Occoquan Workhouse in Virginia but was pardoned by President Woodrow Wilson after serving just three days. Her arrest garnered national attention, and in recognition of her sacrifice, the National Woman's Party awarded her the "Jailed for Freedom" pin, designed by party leader Alice Paul. 

This silver pin, shaped like a jail door, symbolized the imprisonment many suffragists endured for the cause.

Beyond suffrage, Louise remained active in local organizations, including the Framingham Equal Suffrage League, and participated in events advancing women's rights. She passed away in 1952, leaving behind a legacy of activism and community service. In her honor, the intersection of Oak Street and Edgell Road in Framingham has been designated "Mayo-Collins Square," commemorating both Louise and fellow suffragist Josephine Collins for their relentless pursuit of women's voting rights.