Leading Lady Mary Katharine Goddard

Leading Lady Mary Katharine Goddard was a Revolutionary Heroine, the first female newspaper printer, the first female postmaster in the U.S., the first female postmaster in the colonies, the first postmaster of Baltimore, and possibly the first female employee of the U.S. government. She was a journalist, a publisher, and she printed the Declaration of Independence.

During a time when many women did not or could not work for profit, Mary Katharine owned her own business in Baltimore, Maryland. She never married, and she did not have children. There is no known image of Mary Katharine, however, she forever sealed her story, and her name into the timeline of American history. What is known, is that Mary Katharine was dedicated to her work. She was fiercely independent, and she was brave. During a time of war, she could have hidden, however, she faced the reality that she could be charged with treason against the Crown for documenting herself as the printer of the document. Mary Katharine’s story is unique for many reasons. Learn more about her, and why I have chosen her for the Leading Ladies series. 

This depiction of Mary Katharine Goddard is my interpretation of her. There is no known image of Mary Katharine. Please note that her likeness, and the details of her clothing are drawn based on period-appropriate attire, and the information available to me.

The Revolutionary Women Series is a capsule collection created for America 250. It explores the early settlement of the United States, highlighting selected women and folk heroines. This series explores delicate and difficult themes, while providing historical insight into the lives of women and girls that is often not taught. It is important that we learn it, have a better understanding of it, and learn from it. 

The Leading Ladies of Suffrage Series, 100 Years + of Marching for Our Rights, The Revolutionary Women Series & The Leading Ladies in Flight & The Space Age series is back! My designs are renewed, digitized, and elevated to bring you new information, more resources, and you can now print my pre-painted version or color your own designs. Each is fully digitized, and is wearing a uniquely tailored gown, outfit, or flight suit.

Some patters are available in my newly created Saunter patterns. Saunter is available as a set of patterns or individually. See my Design Studio & Creative Space for more information on Saunter! 

I hope that you enjoy collecting these historically inspired creative collectibles, and that they spark your interest in learning more about the women they honor. Please utilize the biographical content and resources included with each of the patterns to do additional research on each leader. 

All downloads are available upon purchase. Please note that no physical product will be shipped to you unless otherwise specified. All sales are final. If you experience any issue with your download(s), please notify me and I will be happy to assist you.

All artwork is the creation of InterArtist Jen Haefeli, Wild Root Creations®.