“ A born reformer, her zeal for human rights has grown more ardent with years. Deeply interested in the enfranchisement of woman and in temperance, she has done valiant service for both causes, devoting to them all the time not required by family and professional duties. The center of a happy home, where three young daughters are growing up to inherit her health of body and of mind as well as her earnest, progressive spirit, she proves that in devotion to outside interests she has not forgotten the more sacred ones of her own household. ”

“ One of the first to be interested in the anti-slavery movement, she was also a pioneer in the temperance cause. Dr. Ripley's father was a man of character and ability. Mr. and Mrs. Rogers left Vermont, when Martha was eleven months old, and settled in northwestern Iowa. There she grew up. Hungry for knowledge, she availed herself of every advantage the country' offered, and acquired a substantial education. When the war of the rebellion broke out, her deepest interests were enlisted in the struggle. ”

“ An earnest advocate of that cause, and an effective speaker and writer, she has done good work in helping to bring many unjust laws into harmony with the higher civilization of the present day and the golden rule of christianity. ”