Eugenia S. Chapman Collection

Eugenia S. Chapman Collection

Chapman, Eugenia S., 1923-1994

Legislators

Illinois. General Assembly. House of Representatives

Women legislators

Illinois. Division of Senior Citizen Advocacy

Eugenia Sheldon Chapman was the first woman to hold a leadership in the Illinois House of Representatives, serving as the Democratic Minority Whip from 1982-1983. Chapman began her career as a teacher in Chicago, Skokie, and Arlington Heights. She won election to the Illinois House of Representatives from the 3rd District in 1965. While in office, Chapman advocated for issues involving women, education, and social concerns. Chapman ran unsuccessfully for a seat in the United States House of Representatives in 1983. After her defeat and departure from the Illinois House of Representatives, Attorney General Neil Hartigan named Chapman the Head of the Division of Senior Citizen Advocacy. Hartigan chose her to serve as coordinator for Community Action in 1987.

The finding aid for the Eugenia Sheldon Chapman Papers, 1965-1988 at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum may be found at http://alplm-cdi.com/chroniclingillinois/items/show/123.

Photographs in this collection include candid images of Eugenia Chapman and photos of a burned building.