On This Day: The First Official Women’s Boxing Match

Long before boxing became a staple of the Olympic Games, two women made history in a small theatre in New York. On 16 March 1876, Nell Saunders and Rose Harland stepped into the ring for what is widely considered the first official female boxing match in the United States.

While the sport was almost entirely dominated by men at the time, this bout proved that women were just as capable of putting on a show.

A Prize Like No Other

The fight took place at Harry Hill’s 26th Street Theatre, a popular variety venue. Saunders and Harland were variety show dancers who had been professionally trained by male boxers for the occasion.

In a move that highlights how different the sport was in the 19th century, the two women weren’t fighting for a belt or a massive cash purse. Instead, the top prize was a silver butter dish and $200.

The Match

The fight was a gritty, hard-hitting affair. Dressed in borrowed boxing trunks, Saunders and Harland battled through several rounds in front of a noisy and fascinated audience.

Interestingly, the National Police Gazette later published a famous, rather patronising illustration of Saunders powdering her nose after "knocking out" Harland. However, historical records suggest the reality was much more competitive; the fight actually went the distance and was decided on points.

The Result and Legacy

Nell Saunders was eventually declared the winner by a single point. While Harland missed out on the butter dish, she didn't leave empty-handed, a collection was taken up by the impressed audience, who gifted her a $10 consolation prize. In a display of sportsmanship, the two women reportedly left the stage arm-in-arm.

Though it would take over a century for women’s boxing to gain mainstream acceptance and Olympic status, it all traces back to that night in 1876. Saunders and Harland proved that the "sweet science" wasn't just for men, paving the way for future trailblazers.