History-Making Women From Michigan You Should Know About

Michigan women have always led the charge, whether in the skies, on picket lines, or center stage. From Jane Johnston Schoolcraft, the first Native American literary author, to Harriet Quimby, America’s first licensed female pilot, and Diana Ross, who took Motown global, these trailblazers didn’t just break barriers - they rewrote the rules. Their incredible stories continue to inspire me, and I hope they’ll inspire you too.

1. Jane Johnston Schoolcraft (Bamewawagezhikaquay)

Jane Johnston Schoolcraft, a writer from Sault Ste. Marie, was the first known Native American literary author. Her Ojibwe heritage deeply influenced her poetry and stories, which she wrote in both English and the Ojibwe language. Long before others attempted similar cultural documentation, she recorded Ojibwe oral traditions, helping preserve Native culture that might have otherwise been lost.

2. Harriet Quimby

Harriet Quimby, from Arcadia, made history in 1911 as the first American woman to earn a pilot's license. The following year, she became the first woman to fly solo across the English Channel, wearing her signature purple satin flight suit. Though she died at 37, her fearless achievements paved the way for women in aviation.

3. Anna "Big Annie" Klobuchar Clemenc

A fierce labor activist during the 1913 copper miners' strike, Anna "Big Annie" Clemenc stood tall, literally and figuratively. At 6-foot-2, she led marches carrying an American flag, often facing down armed guards. The daughter of Eastern European immigrants, she risked arrest and injury to fight for fair wages and safer working conditions, becoming a symbol of the labor movement.

4. Diana Ross

Diana Ross grew up in Detroit and became one of music's biggest stars. She first found fame as the lead singer of The Supremes, Motown's top act, before launching a solo career. Her powerful voice and style broke racial barriers in entertainment, paving the way for future Black female artists.

5. Jane Briggs Hart

Originally from Detroit, Jane Briggs Hart earned her pilot's license during World War II and became Michigan's first female helicopter pilot. In 1961, she joined the "Mercury 13" program, passing the same astronaut tests as the men. Though she never made it to space, her efforts helped challenge gender discrimination in aviation.

6. Gilda Radner

Detroit’s Gilda Radner was the one of the first female stars of Saturday Night Live. Her characters, like Roseanne Roseannadanna and Emily Litella, had audiences in stitches. Even while battling ovarian cancer, she kept her signature humor. Her legacy lives on through "Gilda's Clubs," which support people affected by cancer across the country.

7. Ethelene Crockett

Dr. Ethelene Crockett, hailing from St. Joseph, was Michigan's first Black female board-certified OB-GYN. She fought for women's reproductive health and family planning when it was still controversial. She also achieved a historic first, becoming the first female president of the American Lung Association, a role that amplified her advocacy. Through it all, her work improved healthcare access for underserved communities.

The impact of Michigan women stretches far beyond the state’s borders. Through their bravery, creativity, and persistence, they challenged norms, opened doors, and left lasting legacies. From the arts to activism, their stories remind us that change comes from those willing to push boundaries. And while these seven stand out, they are just a few of the many Michigan women who helped shape history.

Do you know another inspiring Michigan woman who should be highlighted? Share her story through the nomination form. And if you're passionate about history, check out these fascinating vintage photos of Michigan - you'll love them! If you're passionate about exploration, give our new Travel Planner a try!