Emma Stark facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Emma Stark
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| Born |
Emily Arabella Stark
February 17, 1856 California, US
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| Died | July 31, 1890 (aged 33) Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
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| Nationality | Canadian |
| Education | Salt Spring Island Central School and Nanaimo high school, Teacher's certificate |
| Occupation | Teacher |
| Years active | 1874–1890 |
| Spouse(s) | James Clarke (m. 1878) |
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Emily Arabella "Emma" Stark was a Canadian teacher who made history. Born on February 17, 1856, she became the first Black Canadian teacher on Vancouver Island. In 1874, she was also the very first teacher at the new North Cedar School.
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Emma Stark's Early Life
Emma Stark was born on February 17, 1856, in California, United States. Her parents, Louis and Sylvia Stark, had been enslaved in the United States. They later gained their freedom.
In 1860, Emma and her family moved to Salt Spring Island, British Columbia. While living there, her younger brothers and sisters were born: John Edmond, Abraham Lincoln, Hannah "Anne" Serena, and Marie Albertine. In 1875, the Stark family moved to Cedar, near Nanaimo. Emma's youngest sister, Louisa Edna, was born there.
How Did Emma Stark Get Her Education?
Emma Stark went to Salt Spring Island Central School. She then finished her high school studies at Nanaimo high school. Her main teacher was John Craven Jones, who had graduated from Oberlin College. After high school, Emma trained to become a teacher.
Emma Stark's Teaching Career
Emma Stark became a teacher when she was 18 years old. In August 1874, she was hired to teach in a one-room school. This school was located in the Cedar District. Her starting pay was $40 each month.
Emma lived in a small cabin that was provided for the teacher. Some students who lived far from the school stayed with Emma. This included her younger sister, Marie.
Emma Stark's Personal Life
Emma Stark married James Clarke on December 28, 1878.
When Did Emma Stark Die?
Emma Stark passed away in 1890. She was 34 years old. She died from tuberculosis, a serious illness.
