Louise Blanchard Bethune was an American architect, recognized as one of the first female architects in the United States. Born in 1856, she made significant contributions to the field during a time when women faced many barriers in professional careers. Bethune is best known for her work on commercial buildings and educational institutions, including the Buffalo State Hospital in New York. Throughout her career, Bethune was a pioneer for women in architecture, advocating for their inclusion in the profession. She was a founding member of the American Institute of Architects and played a crucial role in promoting the importance of design and planning in urban development.