Southwestern Sacramento in Sacramento County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Jane Norris
Photographed By J. Makali Bruton, July 2, 2019
1. Jane Norris Marker
Jane Norris
1832-1899
On April 11, 1865, a Sacramento woman hatched a secret plan to celebrate the end of the Civil War. Upon learning of Robert E. Lee's surrender to Northern troops, Jane Norris marched to the state capitol's construction site. While the workmen were away at lunch, she climbed two ladders to the highest point of the building, planting an American flag and leaving a note:
Gentlemen: I have had the pleasure of climbing the ladder and placing the stars and stripes. Three cheers for Uncle Abe and Cabinet - A poor but patriotic woman - (signed) A LadyCuriosity about the author spread quickly, but Jane Norris kept her identity hidden for the rest of her life. Even still, the mystery woman became famous for raising the first American flag at the California state capitol.
Jane's daughter finally revealed her mother's identity to a reporter in 1929. Jane Norris rests here in the City Cemetery, a Sacramento patriot whose actions have not been forgotten.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Patriots & Patriotism • War, US Civil • Women. A significant historical date for this entry is April 11, 1865.
Location. 38° 33.694′ N, 121° 29.988′ W. Marker is in Sacramento, California, in Sacramento County
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Luella Buckminster-Johnston (within shouting distance of this marker); Theodora Tiffee Purkitt, M.D. (within shouting distance of this marker); Sacramento Turn Verein (within shouting distance of this marker); Old Odd Fellows Plot (within shouting distance of this marker); Charles Duncombe, M.D. (1787 – 1862) (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); May Hollister Woolsey (about 300 feet away); John Bigler (about 300 feet away); Old Masonic Cemetery (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Sacramento.
Photographed By J. Makali Bruton, July 2, 2019
2. Jane Norris Marker
Photographed By J. Makali Bruton, July 2, 2019
3. Jane Norris tombstone inscription
Credits. This page was last revised on February 7, 2023. It was originally submitted on July 11, 2019, by J. Makali Bruton of Accra, Ghana. This page has been viewed 530 times since then and 11 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on July 11, 2019, by J. Makali Bruton of Accra, Ghana.
