When you think about remembering history in the Twin City, the cobblestone roads of Old Salem may come to mind first. But what about the trailblazing women who helped transform Winston-Salem? Here are some icons you should know:
Susan Ivey | She became the first female President and CEO of RJ Reynolds Tobacco in 2004 and was featured in Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Women list in 2006.
Nathalie Gray | She was the first buyer of the land where The Graylyn Estate stands today. The boutique hotel is a result of her handcrafted design inspired by her travels abroad. Mrs. Gray’s Butterscotch Cookies are offered each afternoon in her honor.
Kate B. Reynolds | Through her will, she used tobacco profits — built on the labor of enslaved people— and created a trust supporting underserved families and improving healthcare in Forsyth County and across the region. The Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust is one of the largest charitable foundations in NC.
Linda Davis | The Winston-Salem native became the city’s first female police chief in 1999. She also served as an officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and assistant police chief throughout her years before retiring in 2004.
Joan Cardwell | Cardwell was the first woman and first Black person appointed to the Forsyth County Board of Elections in 1979.
Sandra Waldon | Waldon was the first paid female firefighter in the US in 1973. She moved up the ranks to become a battalion chief and worked for the Winston-Salem Fire Department for nearly 30 years. Hear her story with Muse WS.
Madame Hancock, aka Molly McCoy | Best known as Winston-Salem’s seamstress, McCoy operated a custom dressmaking shop for 60 years and employed 40 seamstresses. Her reputation earned her the title of “modiste” or “couturiere,” possibly the only one in NC at the time.
Vivian Burke | Before her death in 2020, she was the longest-serving member of the City Council since 1977. She advocated for the Northeast Ward. Today, her daughter-in-law, Barbara Burke, has taken over the seat.
This is not an exhaustive list. Know someone we should add to the list? Send us a message.
