Women in the Gold Rush In 1897, journalist Annie Hall Strong
wrote in the "Skagway News:" "First of all, delicate women have
no right attempting the trip...Those who love luxury, comfort
and ease would better remain at home." She outlined a list of
the basic necessities that a woman must bring with her to the
Klondike, noting that "First and most important of all, by
far...is the selection of proper footwear." At the top of her
list were house slippers, wool socks, walking shoes, arctic
boots, felt boots, gum boots and ice creepers. There were lots
of mittens, underwear and bloomers, but only "one summer dress"
was recommended. Women from all walks of life joined the Gold
Rush. Some accompanied their husbands while others came on their
own as fortune seekers. Many women "struck it rich," some
through mining claims, some through hard and honest work, and
some by catching the eye of a wealthy man. Typical of these
hardworking women adventurers was Mrs. Willis, who left her
disabled husband at home and set out a