Louise Blanchard Bethune

1856–1913 (age 57)

architect

Biography

Louise Blanchard Bethune stood at the forefront of American architecture as the first woman to practice professionally in the field, establishing a firm that created enduring public and commercial spaces. Her pioneering spirit and dedication opened doors for future generations of women architects.

She now rests at Forest Lawn Cemetery, where her legacy endures in both the buildings she created and the barrier-breaking example she set for all who followed.