The struggle for women to gain equal rights and positions of influence in society has progressed slowly. However, despite the restrictive culture many women live in, some have managed to rise above these restrictions. These are ordinary women who are not well-known leaders of the women's movement. They may not attend protests or join organizations to advance women's rights. Yet they contribute significantly to the advancement of all women.

This dissertation researches one such woman. It shows how one woman can be a strong influence in a community. It examines the lifestyle and achievements of Alice Ravenel Huger Smith. Born in 1876 and living until 1958, she lived in the same home in Charleston her entire life. Her multiple last names show she was connected to many of the city's elite families. She had a traditional upbringing.

This dissertation examines Smith's life through her memoir, Reminiscences, biographies, and her papers archived by the South Carolina Historical Society and the Gibbs Museum of Art, both located in Charleston, South Carolina. It also examines her associates from the Charleston Renaissance, particularly Elizabeth O'Neill Verner. It analyzes Smith's roles as an artist, author, historian, preservationist, and businesswoman. This dissertation also addresses the issue of race.

Her accomplishments exceeded what would have been expected from a woman of her elite class. Without any formal education, she became an artist and an author. This dissertation analyzes how she developed business skills so she was able to market her paintings and books. It looks at how she arranged for her work to be exhibited. She also lectured on cultural topics. As a successful artist, she mentored other women, encouraging them in their work. She was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Mount Holyoke College.

Her influence is still felt today through her art. Her paintings continue to be shown in exhibitions and her contributions to historic preservation are reflected in the Historic District of Charleston.

This dissertation concludes that Alice could be identified through her work and accomplishments as contributing to the advancement of the place of women in American culture.