In 1900, Nation claimed to have received a divine vision instructing her to combat the evils of alcohol by destroying saloons. Acting on this vision, she initiated her first "hatchetation" by entering a saloon in Kiowa, Kansas, and smashing liquor bottles and bar fixtures with a hatchet. This direct action marked the beginning of her notorious campaign against alcohol establishments.

In April 1901, Nation targeted bars in Kansas City, Missouri, a city known for its opposition to the temperance movement. After smashing liquor in various establishments, she was arrested and fined. The judge suspended the fine on the condition that she never return to Kansas City.

Nation's relentless saloon-smashing led to numerous arrests—over 30 times between 1900 and 1910. To support her activism and cover legal expenses, Nation sold miniature hatchets as souvenirs.