Some background
Leah Moncure made history in 1938 when she became the first woman in Texas to earn a professional engineering license after graduating from Baylor University the year prior. From there, she began working for the Texas Department of Transportation. Specializing in research, right-of-way and road design, Moncure’s career spanned 32 years, according to a news release from TxDOT.
In addition to becoming the first female engineer in Texas, Moncure was the first Life Member of the National Society of Professional Engineers and the first female member of the Texas Society of Professional Engineers.
What happened
Bastrop resident Sandra Chipley—a retired TxDOT employee and engineer—spearheaded the historical marker for Moncure after learning about her while working at TxDOT.
In mid-January, locals, TxDOT representatives, and engineers gathered to honor Moncure at the dedication ceremony. Her family who came from as far as Florida, including her niece Martha Leah Kunkle Oppenheim, were guests of honor. The historical marker can be found in front of the house at 1601 Main Street, where Moncure grew up and retired in 1964, after 32 years with TxDOT. Moncure passed away in 1972 and is buried in Fairview Cemetery.
What they’re saying
“This was an incredibly moving event,” said Rachel Hatch, Bastrop County Historical Society spokesperson. “The significance of Moncure’s accomplishments and her place in Texas history was enthusiastically received by the audience. She now has a new following.”
