Elsie Accused of Sassing Superior – Montrose Enterprise, February 1, 1912

Elsie Accused of Sassing Superior – Montrose Enterprise, February 1, 1912

Author: Montrose Enterprise

Year: 1912

This 1912 article from The Montrose Enterprise details a humorous but revealing incident involving Miss Elsie Lincoln Vandegrift — later known as Elsie Lincoln Benedict — who was at the time employed as an advertising clerk for the Colorado State Land Board. The article reports that Elsie “ sassed her superior,” Chief Clerk George Thorne, prompting him to complain to Governor John F. Shafroth , who issued her a 30- day reprieve. While the event may seem minor, it speaks volumes about Elsie’s early assertiveness, fearlessness in the workplace, and willingness to speak truth to power — qualities that later made her one of America’s most sought- after lecturers. The tone of the article, including phrases like “ Pandora’s box” and “ Montrose girl in the limelight,” shows how closely her hometown followed her career. Digitally preserved and shared by Heather Benedict, great- granddaughter of Elsie Lincoln Benedict. Source: Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection.