Clara Antoinette McCarty Wilt facts for kids

Clara Antoinette McCarty Wilt (1858–1929) was a remarkable woman. She was the very first person to graduate from the University of Washington. She also became the first woman to serve as the school superintendent for the Pierce County School District.

Clara's Early Life

Clara McCarty was born on February 12, 1858, in Steilacoom, Washington. Her parents were Jonathan Warren and Ruth Jane Kincaid McCarty. They were among the first settlers in the town of Sumner, Washington. Jonathan and Ruth married in the Sumner area in 1855. Clara was the second of their five children.

In 1859, Clara's family returned to their settlement. They found it had been destroyed during conflicts with local Native American groups. They started a new farm. Clara's father also worked as a mailman, delivering mail to Seattle and other nearby places. In 1869, when Clara was about eleven, her family moved to Seattle. This move allowed Clara and her siblings to get a better education. In Seattle, her father worked in the meat business. He also continued as a mailman and hauled coal.

Clara's Family Life

Clara married John Henry Wilt (1852–1907) on July 13, 1882. They had one child together, named Clara May Wilt.

Clara's Amazing Accomplishments

Clara McCarty Wilt was a true pioneer. She achieved many "firsts" in her life. She is even known for buying the very first typewriter in Pierce County!

First Graduate of the University of Washington

In 1876, Clara Antoinette McCarty Wilt graduated from the Territorial University. She was only 18 years old. This university is now known as the University of Washington. Clara was the first person ever to graduate from this university. She was also the first woman to achieve this milestone. She earned a bachelor's degree in science.

At that time, the Territorial University was in downtown Seattle. It was located between 4th and 6th Avenues. The first university building was built in 1861. It had four floors and thirty-five rooms. When Clara attended, tuition cost twenty-two dollars per quarter. After graduating, Clara taught in different schools. She also attended the University of California. Today, a dormitory on the UW campus is named McCarty Hall in her honor.

First Woman Superintendent of Pierce County Schools

On November 2, 1880, Clara was elected Superintendent of Pierce County Schools. This was a huge achievement! She was the first person to hold this position in Pierce County. She was also the first woman to hold any public office in the Washington Territory.

Later Years and Passing

In her later years, Clara was very active in her community. She worked as a secretary for the YMCA. She also typed for the County Court. She served as a secretary in her church. Clara was also involved with her local historical society. She passed away on January 19, 1929, at the age of 71.