Emily Murphy was born in Cookstown, Ontario on March 14, 1868. She was the third of six children in her family, and her father was a very wealthy landowner as well as a businessman. Emily grew up around many conversations of the law and politics. One of her brothers became a member of the Supreme Court and the another a lawyer.
In 1887, Emily married an Anglican minister, Arthur Murphy. In 1907 she moved to Edmonton where she began her social activism. In 1910 she was appointed first female to the Edmonton Hospital Board, and in 1916 Emily was also the first female appointed to the Police Magistrate in British Empire.
Emily also wrote a novel "The Black Candle" in 1922, concerning the drug trade in Canada. "Her writings led to legislation governing narcotics that was not changed until the 1960's." She was also a member of the "Famous Five" which included four other amazing women. In 1929, October 18th, the decision that women were qualified persons to become members of the Senate of Canada was made.
In 1933, Emily at 65 years of age died suddenly in her sleep. Emily Murphy was a very committed, proud, out spoken, determined, tough, and energetic person.
(http://www.histori.ca/historica/eng_site/minutes/minutes_online/murphy.html)
"Whenever I don't know whether to fight or not, I fight"
"We want women leaders today as never before. Leaders who are not afraid to be called names and who are willing to go out and fight. I think women can save civilization. Women are persons."
- Emily Murphy - 1931
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