WSA Speaker Series: Estelle Reel with Jack Mueller (in-person)

Estelle Reel was a woman of remarkable "firsts." In 1895, she became the first woman elected to a statewide office in Wyoming, serving as the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Her influence extended far beyond state lines when President William McKinley appointed her as the National Superintendent of Indian Schools—making her the first woman ever confirmed by the United States Senate for a federal appointment. She continued to lead the nation’s Indian Schools under three different U.S. Presidents.

"Miss Reel was a remarkable woman who has received little credit for her accomplishments," says Mueller. "From her origins as an educator to her landmark role in federal government, her story is an essential part of Wyoming’s heritage."

About the Speaker

Jack Mueller is a Cheyenne native and a graduate of the University of Wyoming. He dedicated his career to education, serving first as a classroom history and English teacher before holding various leadership posts within the Wyoming Department of Education. Currently, Mueller serves as the co-president of the Laramie County Historical Society and has been a longtime active member of the Republican Party.

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The WSA Speaker Series hosts talks at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month.A recording of this talk will be available on the WSA YouTube channel the week following the talk.

The Wyoming State Archives collects, manages, and preserves Wyoming state public records that have long-term administrative, legal, and historical value. These records document the history of our state and the activities of Wyoming Government offices. The Archives also collects non-government records that contribute to the understanding of the state’s history.

For more information, contact Sara Davis, Wyoming State Archivist, at [email protected] or call the WSA at 307-777-7826. The Wyoming State Archives is accessible according to the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines. If you require special assistance, please contact the Wyoming State Archives at 307-777-7826.

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