Wyoming Governors

From its founding as a state in 1890 until the mid-twentieth century, every governor of Wyoming was, with one exception, a Freemason. The Exception? Nellie Tayloe Ross, the first woman governor in the United States. Ms. Ross' husband, however, was a Freemason. In fact, he was William B. Ross, who preceded her as Governor. When her husband died in office, supporters urged her to become a candidate to replace him. Although Ms. Ross refused to campaign, she was elected by a wide margin. Born near St. Joseph, Missouri, Ms. Ross was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.