Historical Society celebrates first woman attorney in Placer County

The Placer County Historical Society announced an event and exhibit celebrating the legacy of Gussie Stewart, the first woman attorney in California. The celebratory event will take place Wednesday, March 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Auburn City Hall. The exhibit is located on the second floor and will remain through April. The evening will feature remarks by The Honorable Suzanne I. Gazzaniga, and attendees will have the unique opportunity to meet Gussie Stewart through reenactors bringing her story to life. Gussie Wright Stewart and her husband, James Stewart, were influential figures in Placer County from the 1920s through the 1940s. Gussie practiced law in Auburn, handling a variety of cases, including family law, estates and probate, property and mining law, and more. She was a fierce advocate for women and children in the courtroom and her personal life, offering her home as a safe haven for those in need. Her hard work and dedication earned her the esteemed position of the first woman president of the County Bar Association. Gussie was deeply involved in community, civic and political activities. She participated in women's clubs, the Red Cross and Camp Fire Girls, and was known for her powerful speeches on "Equal Rights for Women" and "Laws for Women." Her tireless advocacy for women and children extended beyond Placer County. James Stewart, born into a pioneer mining family in Gold Run, had a distinguished career as a mining engineer and led a passionate campaign to save hydraulic mining. Like Gussie, he was devoted to helping children in need. Although Gussie's story had been lost to history, the new tile commemorating Gussie in Central Square and the research done for this exhibit ensure their legacies will be remembered for generations to come. Sponsors for the March 12 event include the Placer County Bar Association, AAUW Auburn and the Placer County Museums Docent Guild. For more information, contact the Placer County Historical Society at April.pchs@gmail.com.