Hansen, Julia Butler, 1907-1988

Julia Butler Hansen (June 14, 1907 – May 3, 1988), was an author, playwright, and politician. served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1960 to 1974. She was the second woman elected to Congress from Washington.

Born Julia Caroline Butler in Portland, Oregon, she attended public school in Washington before moving on to Oregon State College from 1924 to 1926; while working as a dietician and swimming instructor, she graduated from the University of Washington in 1930 with a degree in home economics. Two years before marrying blacksmith Henry Hansen in July 1939, she was elected to the city council of Cathlamet, Washington, where she served until 1946. Between 1939 and 1960, Julia Hansen served in the Washington state house of representatives, eventually rising to speaker pro tempore from 1955 to 1960 and chairing several committees.

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