Mandan in Morton County, North Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Laundress' Quarter: "Suds Row"
Photographed By Connor Olson, August 11, 2019
1. Laundress' Quarter: "Suds Row" Marker
The laundresses were some of the few females officially recognized by the Army. As such, they were afforded housing and rations in return for tending to the soldiers' laundry. The laundresses' quarters, also known as "Suds Row," was a large log building.
The tradition of laundresses dates back to the British Army. In 1802 Congress authorized each company of soldiers to have up to four laundresses to care for uniforms. Each laundress was paid by the individual soldier. The higher the rank, the more money she made for her efforts. Besides mending and washing uniforms, laundresses filled other roles such as nurses, officers' maids, cooks, teachers, and midwives.
In 1883, Congress decided funds required to support laundresses were better spent elsewhere and laundresses disappeared from military posts.
Erected by North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Forts and Castles • Industry & Commerce • Women. A significant historical year for this entry is 1802.
Location. 46° 46.193′
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Schoolhouse (within shouting distance of this marker); Scouts (within shouting distance of this marker); Powder Magazines (within shouting distance of this marker); Barracks (within shouting distance of this marker); Post Hospital (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Officers' Quarters (about 500 feet away); Blockhouses & Palisades (about 700 feet away); Fort Abraham Lincoln Infantry Post (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Mandan.
Photographed By Connor Olson, August 11, 2019
2. Laundress' Quarter: "Suds Row" Marker
Site of laundresses' quarters
Credits. This page was last revised on July 20, 2020. It was originally submitted on July 19, 2020, by Connor Olson of Kewaskum, Wisconsin. This page has been viewed 157 times since then and 48 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 20, 2020, by Connor Olson of Kewaskum, Wisconsin. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. A wide shot of the marker in context. • Can you help?
