Before we dive in, let’s get one thing straight: these women weren’t “lonely spinsters” —they were revolutionary powerhouses who decided marriage was optional, but changing the world? Absolutely non-negotiable.
Today it’s become much more common for women to be “married to their work” or just not feel the need to attach themselves to another human for self-fulfillment or financial support. But, back in the day remaining unmarried was a bold move, let alone forging a path to success and even a position of power.
For Women’s History Month, let’s look back and recognize the many complicated and inspiring women who lead the way for us Modern Old Maids. And we know that this list barely skims the tip of those who’ve made a difference, gaining notoriety or flying under the radar.
1. Joan of Arc (1412-1431): The Badass Teen
Born in a tiny French village, Joan was no ordinary peasant girl. At just 13, she claimed to hear divine voices telling her to support Charles VII and liberate France from English occupation. By 17, she was leading armies (yes, you read that right—a teenage girl commanding military troops), wearing armor, and turning the tide of the Hundred Years’ War.
When male military leaders hemmed and hawed, Joan stepped up with a confidence that would make modern motivational speakers look timid. Joan had no time for marriage. Tragically executed at 19 for heresy, she was later canonized as a saint—proving that some legends are too powerful to be silenced by a little thing like death.
2. Queen Elizabeth I (1533-1603): Heck Yeah She Ruled
Elizabeth I wasn’t just a monarch—she was THE monarch. In an era when women were considered little more than political bargaining chips, she ruled England for 45 years with a mix of diplomatic brilliance and “don’t mess with me” energy unheard of before her reign.
Her decision to remain unmarried wasn’t just a personal choice—it was a strategic masterstroke. By avoiding marriage, she cunningly prevented foreign powers from gaining influence through royal alliances. Instead, she supported arts, exploration, and Englands transformation into a global powerhouse. Take that, patriarchy.
3. Jane Austen (1775-1817): The Literary Queen of Subtle Shade
Before romantic comedies, there was Jane Austen—the OG master of social commentary disguised as marriage plots. Born to a modest clergyman’s family, Austen never married but became one of the most influential novelists in English literature.
Her novels like “Pride and Prejudice” and “Emma” weren’t just love stories thrust onto reluctant middle-school students for decades to come—they were razor-sharp critiques of 19th-century social dynamics. She used humor, irony, and incredible character development to expose the ridiculous marriage market of her time—relatable to this day.
4. Florence Nightingale (1820-1910): The Visualizer
Florence wasn’t just a nurse—she was a statistical genius who revolutionized medical care. Defying her wealthy family’s expectations, she chose professional dedication over marriage. During the Crimean War, she dramatically reduced soldier mortality rates through scientific approaches to hygiene and medical care.
She established the first professional nursing school and used data visualization (think pen and pencil powerpoint) to communicate healthcare improvements to those who couldn’t or wouldn’t read statistical tables. Her commitment and her communication tactics helped convince the public and Parliament to reform sanitary conditions in military barracks saving thousands of lives.
The success of these outcomes led to modern day sanitation and health codes, continuing to save lives around the world.
5. Susan B. Anthony (1820-1906): Voting Rights Superhero
Before women could vote, Susan B. Anthony was out here creating the roadmap for female empowerment. She also gathered petitions and in 1956 became New York’s representative of the Anti-Slavery Society.
Anthony traveled the country, giving speeches, organizing, and fighting for women’s suffrage. She was arrested for voting illegally (as a woman) in 1872—and used her trial as a platform to highlight the injustice of denying women basic citizenship rights.
Susan never married, viewing her life’s work as a commitment to equality that was far more meaningful.
6. Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888): Write On Girl
Before becoming famous for “Little Women,” Louisa worked as a teacher, seamstress, and servant to support her family. She was a passionate abolitionist, women’s rights supporter, and wrote prolifically—all while remaining romantically untethered.
Her most famous novel, which many assume is a romantic tale, actually provides a nuanced look at women’s limited options in 19th-century society. Talk about writing your own narrative—literally and figuratively.
7. Coco Chanel (1883-1971): Fashion Revolutionary
Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel didn’t just design clothes—she liberated women from restrictive fashion. Born into poverty, she built a global fashion empire that challenged every social expectation of her time.
While her reputation suffered when she was discovered to be a Nazi sympathizer, her classic Chanel designs have endured; emphasizing comfort, simplicity, and personal expression. She never married but had numerous high-profile relationships, always on her own terms.
Coco didn’t just break glass ceilings in the world of fashion—she redesigned the entire building.
8. Greta Garbo (1905-1990): Hollywood Icon
Garbo wasn’t just an actress—she was an enigma. Her films challenged traditional representations of femininity, and her personal life was a masterclass in “mind your own business” long before it was trendy.
Greta started her career as a model and became one of the earliest stars of the silent film era. She was nominated for an Academy Award four times, but had to settle for an honorary Oscar for her body of work in 1954.
At the height of her Hollywood fame, she shocked the world by retiring early and becoming intensely private. She valued her independence and freedom over public expectations. The American Film Institute named Garbo the fifth greatest female star in Hollywood history
9. Vivian Maier (1926-2009): The Artist Unknown
Working as a nanny in Chicago, Vivian Maier was secretly one of the most incredible street photographers of the 20th century. Her work wasn’t discovered until shortly after her death when a box full of negatives was purchased at an auction. Thousands of her stunning photographs captured mid-century urban life with incredible insight.
Her surprisingly unknown talent and quiet life became the focus of an Oscar-nominated documentary released in 2013 titled “Finding Vivian Maier.” It’s 100% worth a watch.
While she was a nanny to many, she never had children of her own and her unmarried status allowed her the freedom to pursue her art quietly, without compromise or expectation.
10. Jan Hooks (1957-2014): Comedy Powerhouse
A groundbreaking comedian and “Saturday Night Live” cast member from 1986-1991, Jan Hooks brought incredible character work and sharp wit to comedy. She was brought in to replace Jean Smart on “Designing Women” in 1991, then went on to have recurring roles in “3rd Rock From the Sun”, “30 Rock” and “The Simpsons” playing Apu’s wife, Manjula.
While Jan had opportunities to accelerate her acting career, she suffered from terrible stage fright (so real of her) and is said to have eventually decided to work only enough to keep her Screen Actors Guild health insurance. Jan dated SNL cast member, Kevin Nealon, but never married. She was beloved by audiences and admired by fellow comedians for her remarkable talent and authenticity.
A Final Toast to the Unmarried and Unstoppable
Here’s the thing about these women—they weren’t sitting around waiting for life to happen. They were TOO BUSY HAPPENING TO LIFE.
This Women’s History Month, let’s raise a glass (sparkling water, wine, whatever) to the women who proved that our value isn’t determined by our relationship status, but by the fire in our soul and the impact of our actions.
To all the “old maids” out there—past, present, and future—you’re not just writing history. You’re absolutely owning it. For more background on what being a Modern Old Maid entails, check out the “All The Single Old Ladies” blog post.
Mic drop 🎤
This piece has the kind of depth that makes it impossible to rush through. I found myself lingering over each sentence, appreciating not just the content but the care with which it was crafted. It’s the kind of writing that stays with you, makes you think, and makes you feel all at once.
Such a nice comment, I really appreciate it.