15 Facts About Elizabeth McCombs

Elizabeth Reid McCombs was a New Zealand politician of the Labour Party who in 1933 became the first woman elected to the New Zealand Parliament.

Elizabeth McCombs was one of the nine children of Alice and Daniel Henderson.

Elizabeth McCombs became interested in socialism through the influence of her elder sisters, who were involved in the Progressive Liberal Association, a small socialist-orientated group.

Elizabeth McCombs herself became involved in the Association, and as an extension of this, with the New Zealand Women's Christian Temperance Union, run by prominent New Zealand suffragist Kate Sheppard.

Elizabeth McCombs held a number of positions within the Temperance Union throughout her life, including that of national treasurer.

In 1903, Elizabeth McCombs married James Elizabeth McCombs, a strong socialist who had been involved with the Progressive Liberal Association.

James Elizabeth McCombs was active in left-wing political circles, and was later to become an MP for the Social Democratic Party.

In 1921, Elizabeth McCombs gained election to the Christchurch City Council, being the second woman to do so.

Elizabeth McCombs remained a member of the council until 1935, when she chose to step down.

Elizabeth McCombs's work was recognised in 1926, when she was made a Justice of the peace.

In parliament, Elizabeth McCombs spoke out on a number of issues, many of which involved women's rights and welfare.

Elizabeth McCombs called a deputation representing the unemployed "an illogical crowd" when they said they wanted work but criticised having to work for charitable aid.

Increasingly poor health made it difficult for Elizabeth McCombs to participate fully in politics.

Elizabeth McCombs died in Christchurch on 7 June 1935 aged 61, less than two years after entering parliament.

Terry Elizabeth McCombs held the Lyttelton seat until 1951, concluding a 38-year family hold on the seat.