Celia Dial Saxon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Celia Dial Saxon
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | October 1, 1857 |
| Died | January 29, 1935 (aged 77) Columbia, South Carolina
|
| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | Normal School of South Carolina College |
| Occupation | Educator, activist |
Celia Dial Saxon (born October 1, 1857, died January 29, 1935) was an amazing African-American teacher. She taught in Columbia, South Carolina, for 55 years! Celia also helped start important places like the Fairwold Industrial Home for Negro Girls and the Wilkinson Orphanage for Negro Children. Her hard work was recognized when a school was named after her in 1929. Later, a large housing project and even a university building were also named in her honor.
Contents
Celia Dial Saxon's Early Life and Education
Celia Dial Saxon was born into slavery in Columbia, South Carolina. This was in 1857. Even though she started life in a difficult situation, she worked hard to get an education.
Becoming a Teacher
In 1877, Celia enrolled in the Normal school of the South Carolina College. A "Normal school" was a special type of school. It was where people went to learn how to become teachers. Celia wanted to help others learn.
Celia Dial Saxon's Teaching Career
Celia Dial Saxon became a dedicated teacher. She taught in Columbia, South Carolina, for a very long time. She spent 55 years teaching students in her community.
Saxon School Renamed
Because of her long and important career, a school was renamed in her honor. In 1929, Blossom Street School became the Saxon School. This showed how much people respected her work.
Celia Dial Saxon's Community Work
Celia Dial Saxon was not just a teacher. She was also an activist. This means she worked to make her community better. She cared a lot about the well-being of women and girls.
Helping Girls and Children
Celia helped start the Fairwold Industrial Home for Negro Girls. This home was in Lexington County, South Carolina. It provided a safe place and training for girls. She also helped found the Wilkinson Orphanage for Negro Children. These actions showed her deep commitment to helping young people.
Joining Community Clubs
Celia Dial Saxon was part of many important groups. These groups worked to improve society. She was active in the Woman's club movement. These clubs were made up of women who wanted to make positive changes.
Clubs Celia Belonged To
Some of the clubs Celia Saxon joined included:
- The Palmetto State Teachers' Association
- The Culture Club
- The Lend-a-Hand Club
- The South Carolina Federation of Colored Women's Clubs
- The Woman's Christian Temperance Union
Honors and Legacy of Celia Dial Saxon
Celia Dial Saxon received many honors for her life's work. She was recognized for her teaching and her community service.
Honorary Degree
In 1926, Celia was given a special award. She received an Honorary Masters of Arts degree. This came from the State Agricultural and Mechanical College at Orangeburg. It was a big achievement for her.
Lasting Recognition
Celia Dial Saxon passed away on January 29, 1935, in Columbia, South Carolina. Her legacy continues to live on.
- In 1954, a large housing project in Columbia was named after her.
- In 2022, the University of South Carolina decided to name a residence hall in her honor.
These honors show that Celia Dial Saxon was a truly important person. She made a lasting difference in education and her community.
