Elizabeth Ayer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Elizabeth Ayer
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| Born | October 13, 1897  |
| Died | August 4, 1987 (aged 89) |
Elizabeth Ayer (October 13, 1897 – August 4, 1987) was a very important architect in Seattle, Washington. She worked as an architect for over 50 years! Elizabeth Ayer was special because she was the first woman to finish the architecture program at the University of Washington. She was also the first woman to officially become a registered architect in Washington State.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Elizabeth Ayer was born in Thurston County, Washington, in October 1897. When she was 19, in 1916, she started studying at the University of Washington. She worked very hard and graduated in 1921 with her architecture degree.
Starting Her Architecture Career
Even while she was still a student in 1919, Elizabeth Ayer got her first job with an architect named Andrew Willatsen. The very next year, she began working with another Seattle architect, Edwin Ivey. This was the start of a long and important partnership.
In 1922, Elizabeth moved to New York City to work for a year. But she soon returned to Seattle in 1923 and went back to working with Edwin Ivey.
Working with Edwin Ivey
By the late 1920s, Elizabeth Ayer was recognized as a key partner in Ivey's firm. She was called his "Associate." During the 1920s and 1930s, Elizabeth played a huge role. She helped design many homes and made sure they were built correctly. Around 1930, she officially became a registered architect in Washington State. This was a big achievement for a woman at that time.
Leading Her Own Firm
Sadly, in 1940, Edwin Ivey passed away in a car accident. Elizabeth Ayer bravely took over the architecture firm. She continued the business with another employee, Rolland Lamping.
During World War II
In 1942, they had to pause their work because of World War II. During the war, Elizabeth Ayer used her skills to work as an architect for the U.S. Engineers Office. After the war ended in 1945, she restarted her own architecture practice.
Sometime in the 1950s, the firm's name was changed to Ayer & Lamping. This showed that Elizabeth was truly leading the company.
Retirement and Later Life
Elizabeth Ayer retired in 1970, after an amazing 50-year career in architecture. She then moved to Lacey, Washington. Even in retirement, she stayed active in her community. She served on the Planning Commission in Lacey until 1980. Elizabeth Ayer passed away in Lacey in 1987, at the age of 89. She left behind a legacy as a true pioneer for women in architecture.
See also
In Spanish: Elizabeth Ayer para niños
