Van Hyning, Lyrl Clark, 1892-1973

Born July 23, 1892 Gallia County, Ohio; Died June 9, 1973 Albuquerque, New Mexico. Mary Lyrl Clark Van Hyning was born to William Howard Clark and Rhoda Ann Walter Clark. Lyrl was one of four daughters, who included Frances (Frankie), Faye, and Genevieve (Bunnie). William died when Lyrl was six years old, leaving Rhoda to raise the family. To do so, Rhoda became a house-mother at Rio Grande College in Gallipolis, Ohio, not far from the Clark family farm, so that her daughters could attend college. Lyrl graduated from Rio Grande in 1913 as the only woman in her class and the first graduate from the Department of Oratory. After graduation, Lyrl worked as a teacher in both public schools and Rio Grande College before marrying George Herman Van Hyning on June 17, 1915. Lyrl and George had three children together: Parrie Ann, Thomas Clark (Tom), and Jorgina (Gina). The family lived in South America for awhile as a result of George's job with Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. When the Van Hynings returned to the United States, they lived in Galesburg, Illinois, and later settled in Chicago. In February 1941, Lyrl, Lucy Palermo, and Grace Keefe founded We, the Mothers, Mobilize for America, Inc., officially incorporated as an educational, tax-exempt organization. We the Mothers sought to educate the American public and politicians about the threat to American democracy and the safety of their sons through the country's participation in World War II. They protested President Roosevelt, the New Deal, lend-lease programs, and the war in general. The organization's newsletter, Women's Voice, spread their anti-war, anti-Communist, and anti-Semitic rhetoric to adherent throughout the country. Lyrl served as editor for this publication. She also gave speeches and wrote articles for other publications. In 1952 Lyrl was indicted and went to trial for libel as a result of her anti-Semitic rhetoric in Women's Voice. She was acquitted of the charges on November 10, 1952. In addition to these activities, Lyrl was also a prominent member of the Daughters of the Revolution, serving as regent of the Aurora Chapter from 1936-1938. Lyrl was also very ardent about her religious beliefs. Although raised a Methodist, she became a Christian Scientist and attended the "I AM" Temple.