- Carry Nation (1846-1911). Most dramatic of the temperance superstars, she literally smashed her way into headlines with a hatchet in one hand and a Bible in the other. Her sworn enemies were drink, tobacco, and Masonry, and her ruinous first marriage was to a chain smoking, alcoholic Mason. Mrs. Nation generated much publicity and irreverent amusement, but her influence was wide and lasting, and many thousands took her efforts seriously. She forced public attention to focus on the saloons where American workingmen drowned their woes and spent their pay while their needy families were locked outside without any say in the matter. Admirers everywhere sent her souvenir hatchets, some designed in gold or silver.
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