Emily Dobson facts for kids

Emily Dobson (born October 10, 1842 – died June 5, 1934) was an amazing Australian woman. She is remembered for her big heart and for helping many people. Emily worked especially hard to support women and improve public health in her community.

Emily's Early Life

Emily Lempriere was born in Port Arthur, Tasmania. Her birthday was October 10, 1842. Her parents were Thomas James Lempriere and Charlotte Lempriere. Emily learned at home from her father.

On February 4, 1868, she married Henry Dobson. Henry was a lawyer and later became a politician.

Helping Her Community

Emily Dobson began her important charity work after 1891. This was the year her husband, Henry, became a member of the Parliament of Tasmania.

Fighting for Health

In September 1891, Emily became a leader in the Women's Sanitary Association. This group was formed to fight an outbreak of typhoid. Typhoid is a serious illness. The group worked to make Hobart a healthier place. They asked the local council for help. They even supported people running in the 1892 city elections. They worked alongside a men's group with similar goals.

Supporting Children and Others

Emily started the Ministering Children's League in 1892. This group helped children in need. In 1898, she helped create a committee for the Blind, Deaf and Dumb Institution. This institution supported people with sight and hearing challenges.

Emily also cared deeply about nursing. She helped start the New Town Consumptives' Sanatorium in 1905. A sanatorium was a special hospital for people with lung diseases. She was also a lifelong supporter of the Tasmanian Bush Nursing Association. This group provided healthcare to people living in country areas.

Working for Social Change

Emily Dobson also supported the temperance movement. This movement encouraged people to live without alcohol. She was a vice-president of the Women's Christian Temperance Union of Tasmania.

In 1899, Emily became a vice-president of the new National Council of Women of Tasmania. This council worked to improve the lives of women. She traveled to London in 1899 for the International Council of Women meeting. In 1908, she was a delegate at a meeting in Amsterdam. This meeting was about women's right to vote.

In 1919, the National Council of Women of Tasmania created an award in her honor. It was called the Emily Dobson Philanthropic Prize. This prize recognized her amazing work helping others.

Emily Dobson passed away in Hobart on June 5, 1934. She was buried in Queenborough cemetery.