Early Life and Background
Born October 19, 1862, in Pennsylvania or New York, Myrta Z Belknap was the daughter of John Sands Belknap (1841-1926) and Lucy G Beers. Growing up in a hard-working household paved the way for her success in a male-dominated business sector.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | October 19, 1862 |
| Birthplace | Likely Pennsylvania (alternative records indicate New York) |
| Parents | John Sands Belknap (1841–1926) and Lucy G Beers |
| Early Documentation | Sparse, primarily census logs and genealogy archives |
Business Achievements
Myrta co-managed her husband’s Chicago drugstore from 1886 until 1896, adeptly managing bookkeeping, inventory, supplier negotiations, and customer interactions, even during pregnant, to ensure profitability and efficiency.
| Years | Role | Key Responsibilities | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1886–1896 | Co‑manager, Chicago drugstore | Bookkeeping, inventory, procurement, service | Accurate finances, efficient workflows, loyal clientele |
Family and Legacy
In 1886, Myrta married Herman Webster “H.H.” Holmes and had Lucy Theodate Holmes on July 4, 1889. After Holmes’s execution in 1896, Myrta moved to Michigan and died on May 28, 1924. Lucy, their daughter, was a renowned public educator who served her community until her death on December 29, 1956.
| Name | Relation | Birth Date | Death Date | Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H.H. Holmes | Husband | May 16, 1861 | May 7, 1896 | Notorious criminal |
| Lucy Theodate Holmes | Daughter | July 4, 1889 | December 29, 1956 | Prominent public educator |
| John Sands Belknap | Father | 1841 | 1926 | Family patriarch |
| Lucy G Beers | Mother | — | — | Family matriarch |
FAQ
What was Myrta Z Belknap’s major drugstore job?
She oversaw bookkeeping, inventory control, supplier agreements, and customer service to ensure accurate records and seamless operations.
How did she balance business with family life?
She organised her work and family life, even while pregnant.
Who was Lucy Theodate Holmes?
Born July 4, 1889, Lucy Theodate Holmes was Myrta’s daughter and a renowned public educator until 1956.
When did Myrta Z Belknap live and work?
Born October 19, 1862, Myrta ran a Chicago drugstore from 1886 to 1896 before passing away on May 28, 1924.
