Elinor Z. Taylor

Who was Elinor Z. Taylor?

Elinor Zimmerman Taylor was a Republican member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing the 156th legislative district from 1977 through her retirement in 2006. Taylor served in the House Republican leadership as Majority Caucus Chair.

She attended West Chester High School, graduating in 1939. In 1943, she graduated from West Chester University, where she later received a Doctor of Public Service, honoris causa. In 1958 she earned a Master's in Education from Temple University. At various times, she attended classes at Columbia University and University of Delaware.

She was first elected to represent the 156th legislative district in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1976. During her career, she focused on higher education and constituent service. In 1982, she famously engineered a deal that led to the downfall of a West Chester University President. She was elected Republican Caucus Secretary in 1995 and alter served in the mostly-ceremonial leadership position of caucus chairwoman.

She retired prior to the 2006 elections with her health deteriorating. She said, "My approach has always been the idea that I could make a difference.