Monday, September 14, 2015

Educator Mary Lyons Was a “Mother of the Republic


“Clear thought and self-directed action toward righteous ends.” Mary Lyons


Mary Lyons (1797-1849) drew strength and resolve from her very difficult early life and followed the path from teacher, to student to educator to realize her bold dream of a higher education institution for women.

Fighting the current theory that education was harmful to women, Mary was seen as subversive as she valiantly fundraised for two years to provide an “affordable” education for females.

In 1837, 80 students were admitted to Mount Holyoke Female Seminary in South Hadley, MA. They were instructed to bring a Bible, an atlas, a dictionary and two spoons (a dessert and a larger spoon). 
Thousands of women owe Mary Lyon a debt that must be repaid in improving the world.


To learn more about this incredible woman, go to 
http://www.massmoments.org/moment.cfm?mid=322.

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