A celebration was held on Monday in Hartford for what would have been the 105th birthday of former Gov. Ella Grasso – the first female governor of Connecticut.

She ran as part of the Democratic party nearly 50 years ago in 1974 and served as the 83rd governor of Connecticut until 1980.

Officials gave remarks at the Connecticut State Library, looking back on the impact that Grasso left.

“Ella Grasso left a legacy of inspiring people, particularly women, and particularly those from immigrant backgrounds to go into public service,” said Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz.

Grasso also made history by being the first female not to succeed her husband as governor.

Grasso died in 1981.