Charlotte Moffett Cartwright facts for kids
Charlotte Moffett Cartwright (born Charlotte Ann Terwilliger) was an amazing Oregon pioneer. She came to Oregon when she was only three years old in 1845. Her family traveled with the Meek Cutoff party, which was a difficult journey. Sadly, her mother passed away soon after they reached The Dalles. Charlotte grew up in the very first house built in Portland, which her father constructed.
She became well-known for many important things. She helped women gain the right to vote, worked with the Oregon Pioneer Association, and was known as "Mother Moffett" because she cared for children who didn't have parents. She also helped start a library that shared books with many people in Oregon.
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An Early Oregon Pioneer
Charlotte's journey to Oregon was part of a big adventure. In 1845, her family joined a group of settlers heading west. This trip was very challenging, and many people faced hardships. When they finally arrived in Oregon, Charlotte's father, James Terwilliger, built the first house in what would become the city of Portland. This was a very important home in the early days of the city.
Helping Women and Community
Charlotte Moffett Cartwright was a strong voice for change. She was very active in the women's suffrage movement. This movement worked to give women the right to vote, just like men. She believed that women should have an equal say in how their communities and country were run.
Caring for Others
Charlotte was also known as "Mother Moffett." She earned this nickname because she cared for many children who had lost their parents. She provided a safe and loving home for these orphans, showing great kindness and compassion.
Sharing Knowledge with Libraries
Beyond her work for women's rights and children, Charlotte also loved books and learning. She helped create and fund a circulating library in Oregon. This was a special kind of library where books could be borrowed and shared among many people, even in different towns. This helped more people read and learn, which was very important in those early days.
Honoring Oregon's Past
Charlotte was also involved with the Oregon Pioneer Association. This group celebrated and remembered the brave people who first settled in Oregon. She helped make sure their stories and contributions were not forgotten.
Her Family Life
Charlotte Moffett Cartwright was married twice. Her first husband was Walter Moffatt. Together, they had five children. Sadly, Walter passed away while at sea. Later, Charlotte married Mr. C.M. Cartwright.
