Edith Brower facts for kids

Edith Brower (born August 24, 1848 – died September 16, 1931) was an important American reformer. She lived in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Edith was active during the Progressive Era, a time when many people worked to improve society. She became a music and literary critic, writing about arts for famous magazines. These included The Atlantic Monthly and Harper's Weekly.

A Life of Purpose

Edith Brower was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on August 24, 1848.

Starting a Club

In 1905, Edith started the Wyoming Valley Woman's Club. She was the first president of this club. It still helps the community today! Edith was also known for her book, Little Old Wilkes-Barre as I Knew It. This book was published in 1923. She also wrote many letters to the famous poet Edwin Arlington Robinson.

Speaking Up for Women

Edith Brower strongly supported Women's suffrage. This was the movement to give women the right to vote. A writer named Almroth Wright wrote an article in The New York Times. He argued against women voting. He claimed women's brains were different, making them unable to handle social issues.

Edith quickly wrote a letter to the editor of the Times. It was published on October 23, 1923. In her letter, she strongly disagreed with Wright's ideas. She wrote many such letters. People described her as a "relentless writer of letters to the editor." She was a strong supporter of women's rights.

After she passed away, a tribute to Edith Brower was written. It said, "At a time when the convention was that women should hold silence, she was not silent." This shows how determined she was to speak up for what she believed in.

Remembering Edith

In 1984, the City of Wilkes-Barre placed a special plaque to remember Edith Brower. You can find it on the River Common. It is across from the old clubhouse of the Wyoming Valley's Women Club.

Her Writings

Edith Brower wrote several books and articles.

Books She Wrote

• The remainder man (1892)
• Little old Wilkes-Barre as I knew it (1923)