Carrie A. Tuggle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Carrie A. Tuggle
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| Born | May 28, 1858 Eufaula, Alabama, United States
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| Died | November 5, 1924 (aged 66) |
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Carrie A. Tuggle (born May 28, 1858 – died November 5, 1924) was an important American teacher, helper of others (a philanthropist), and someone who worked for social change. After slavery ended, she fought for equal education and the right to vote for everyone in Birmingham, Alabama.
She started the Tuggle Institute. This was a special school and home for Black children who didn't have families or who had gotten into trouble. They received a free education there. Groups like the Order of Calanthe and the Knights and Ladies of Honour of Alabama helped support the school.
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Early Life and Family
Carrie A. Tuggle was born on May 28, 1858, in Eufaula, Alabama. Her mother had been a slave, and her father was a Mohawk Indian chief. Even though she was born into slavery, she became a strong leader in the Black community of Birmingham.
She married John Tuggle, who was from Columbus, Ohio. In the early 1900s, they moved to Birmingham. They hoped to find better jobs and a more active social life there. Carrie and John Tuggle had four children.
Her Work and the Tuggle Institute
In Birmingham, Carrie Tuggle held important positions in community groups. From 1891 to 1899, she was the Grand Worthy Councilor. In 1901, she became the Supreme Worthy Councilor. She also created and edited a newspaper for the Black community, called the Birmingham Truth, from 1902 to 1910.
Carrie Tuggle was a social worker who helped people. One time, she asked a court to forgive two young people who were in trouble. She offered to take care of them and help them change their lives. This act was praised by many, including a famous businessman named A. G. Gaston. It also inspired her to help create the Jefferson County Juvenile and Domestic Court. This court helps young people and families.
Starting the Tuggle Institute
On September 3, 1903, Carrie Tuggle opened the Tuggle Institute. She started it with only $2.50. The main goal of the school was to give a home and education to children who needed help. Many groups in Birmingham, like the Courts of Calanthe, helped support the Tuggle Institute.
She also asked for help from wealthy people in Birmingham's White community. Louis Pizitz and his wife, and A. B. Loveman, gave financial support. At first, the school was a simple building. But Carrie Tuggle made sure it had a strong learning program. Students learned about different jobs, nursing, and music.
Challenges and Growth
In 1919, a sad event happened: the school building burned down. People suspected it was set on fire on purpose. After the fire, the school moved to a nearby church. Teaching and caring for the children continued there.
Later, the institute's building was rebuilt. It became known as "one of the most effective and beneficial institutions of the South." White supporters, especially the small Jewish community in Birmingham, helped pay for the new buildings. Some famous students who attended the institute include Dr. A. G. Gaston, John T. Whatley, and Erskine Hawkins.
Carrie Tuggle also worked hard for women's right to vote in Jefferson County. She encouraged many Black women, including teachers, to register and vote. During this time, she faced personal sadness when her daughter, Mamie Adams, who was also a social activist, passed away.
Death and Lasting Impact
Carrie Tuggle kept working to raise money for the institute. This hard work affected her health. She was sick in bed for six months and then died in 1924.
After her death, the Tuggle Institute continued its work. In 1926, it became part of the Birmingham City Public Schools. In 1934, the City Board of Education bought the institute and renamed it Enon Ridge School. Then, in 1936, the Board of Education changed the name again to Tuggle Elementary School. There is a special plaque at the school that honors her memory. It says, "Carrie A. Tuggle, a scholar, educator and servant of mankind."
To honor Carrie Tuggle, a memorial stone was placed in Birmingham's Kelly Ingram Park. Two of her family members unveiled it. Dr. A. G. Gaston, who had studied at the Tuggle Institute, encouraged this memorial. The stone recognizes her important work helping children who were orphans or in trouble. It also honors her as a generous helper and a dedicated teacher.
