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Columbus Neighborhoods

Did Two Women Really Get Married in 1893?

Special | 55sVideo has Closed Captions

Two women who met in Columbus, Ohio is one of the early instances of gay marriage in the U.S.

As part of the Legacy Funds Illuminate Project, we’ve uncovered the remarkable story of Sally Stringer and Mary Brinkman—two women who met in Columbus, Ohio, in 1893. Their love defied societal norms of the time. Sally and Mary ran away together, even obtaining a marriage certificate with Sally listed as “Augustus.” It's one of the early instances of gay marriage in the United States.

11/26/2025

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Columbus Neighborhoods is a local public television program presented by WOSU

Columbus Neighborhoods

Did Two Women Really Get Married in 1893?

Special | 55sVideo has Closed Captions

As part of the Legacy Funds Illuminate Project, we’ve uncovered the remarkable story of Sally Stringer and Mary Brinkman—two women who met in Columbus, Ohio, in 1893. Their love defied societal norms of the time. Sally and Mary ran away together, even obtaining a marriage certificate with Sally listed as “Augustus.” It's one of the early instances of gay marriage in the United States.

11/26/2025

Problems playing video?   | Closed Captioning Feedback

Report a Problem

Before you submit an error, please consult our Video Help page.

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