Women’s History Month & Clara Barton

Women’s History Month started as a week-long observance and celebration of women’s vital roles in American history until 1987 when Congress designated March as “Women’s History Month.” Since then, Americans have acknowledged women’s historic achievements that helped shape modern-day society. 

Pasadena, Texas, is known for its massive strawberry agriculture. This is partially, if not solely, thanks to American Red Cross Founder Clara Barton. This month and forever, Pasadena pays homage to Ms. Barton for her compassionate grace and humanitarianism that continues to shine through the efforts of the American Red Cross. 

Clara Barton’s Lasting Impact on Pasadena’s Agricultural Legacy 

Clara Barton’s (1821–1912) dedication to disaster relief efforts changed the course of many communities across the United States, including Pasadena, Texas, where she made an extraordinary contribution following the devastation of the 1900 Galveston Hurricane.

After the hurricane caused widespread destruction along the Gulf Coast, Clara Barton, through the American Red Cross, sent 1.5 million strawberry plants to Pasadena. This thoughtful and impactful gesture played a key role in helping local farmers rebuild their livelihoods and set Pasadena on the path to becoming a major strawberry-growing hub. The introduction of these plants provided a unique opportunity for the community to recover both economically and agriculturally, laying the foundation for Pasadena’s future as the “Strawberry Capital of the South.”

As the strawberry industry flourished in the early 20th century, Pasadena's reputation for high-quality strawberries grew, and the city began to emerge as an agricultural leader. The success of local strawberry farms eventually gave rise to the Pasadena Strawberry Festival, which was first held in 1974 to celebrate the area’s rich agricultural heritage. This event not only commemorates the city’s history but also highlights the ongoing importance of strawberries in Pasadena’s cultural and economic identity. 

Today, the Pasadena Strawberry Festival is one of the city's largest and most anticipated annual events, attracting thousands of visitors from across the country. The festival features a variety of activities, including: 

• The world’s largest strawberry shortcake, a nod to Pasadena's long-standing strawberry farming legacy 
• Strawberry-themed contests
• With over 100 vendors offering food and other goods, there's something for everyone to enjoy! 
• Live music, BBQ Cook-off, Mud Volleyball, and family-friendly entertainment including an indoor Kid-Zone                                  

Clara Barton’s relief efforts helped Pasadena recover from the aftermath of the 1900 hurricane and catalyzed the development of an agricultural tradition that remains vibrant today. The festival has grown into a powerful symbol of community pride and resilience, reinforcing the strong ties between Pasadena’s past and present.

The Pasadena Strawberry Festival has become an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric, uniting both locals and visitors in celebration of a shared history. The festival draws tourists from all over the United States and beyond, contributing to the local economy and helping to position Pasadena as a city that cherishes its agricultural roots while embracing modern-day vitality.

Without Clara Barton’s support, Pasadena’s strawberry-growing legacy might not have flourished the way it did. Her post-hurricane relief efforts were a turning point in the city’s history, and the Pasadena Strawberry Festival continues to honor her lasting influence on the community’s agricultural and cultural heritage. 

Visit Pasadena, Texas

You’re invited to witness the cultural heritage influenced by Ms. Barton’s gracious gifts. The Pasadena Strawberry Festival is May 15 - 18, 2025. Start now to plan your strawberry-themed experience!