Frances Cox Henderson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Frances Cox Henderson
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| First Lady of Texas | |
| In role February 19, 1846 – December 21, 1847 |
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| Preceded by | position established |
| Succeeded by | Martha Evans Gindratt Wood |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 21, 1820 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Died | January 25, 1897 (aged 76) East Orange, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Resting place | Rosedale Cemetery |
| Spouse | Governor James Pinckney Henderson |
| Known for | First Lady of Texas (1846–1847) |
Frances Cox Henderson (1820–1897) was an amazing woman who became the first First Lady of Texas. She was married to James Pinckney Henderson, who was the very first Governor of Texas. Frances was super smart and could speak many languages. She even translated books when she was young! She also worked hard to help women get the right to vote. She helped her husband with his law office and even helped start churches in Texas. Later in her life, she created a special home for women in New Jersey.
Contents
Frances Henderson's Early Life and Learning
Growing Up in Philadelphia
Frances Cox Henderson was born on July 21, 1820. Her parents were John and Martha Lyman Cox. She was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the United States.
A Brilliant Student
When Frances was nine years old, her father sent her and her brothers and sisters to Europe for school. Frances was a very talented student. She learned to speak many languages, eventually knowing 18 out of 25! By the time she was just 14, she was already translating books. She was also good at math and music.
Supporting Women's Rights
Frances was very organized and used these skills to help others. She was a strong supporter of women's suffrage. This means she believed women should have the right to vote.
Moving to Texas and Marriage
Meeting the Future Governor
Frances met James Pinckney Henderson in Europe. At the time, he was representing the Republic of Texas in France and England. He was like an ambassador for Texas.
A Wedding in London
Frances and James got married on October 30, 1839. Their wedding took place in London, England, at a church called St George's, Hanover Square.
Starting a New Life in Texas
After they got married, Frances and James moved to Texas. They made their home and opened a law office in a town called San Augustine. Frances learned a lot about law to help her husband run his office.
Frances Henderson's Faith and Community Work
Helping Churches Grow
Frances Henderson was a member of the Episcopal Church. She worked hard to help establish new churches in East Texas. These churches were in towns like Trinity, San Augustine, Rusk, Palestine, and Nacogdoches.
Later Years of Service
In her final years, Frances was a dedicated member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in New Jersey. She continued her civic work, helping her community.
Later Years and Legacy
Family Life
Frances and James Henderson had five children together. Three of their daughters, Martha, Fanny, and Julia, lived to be adults.
Life After Her Husband's Death
Governor Henderson passed away in 1858 in Washington, D.C.. At that time, he was serving as a Senator for the Republic of Texas. He is buried in the Texas State Cemetery.
Moving to Europe and New Jersey
During the Civil War, Frances sold their land in Texas. She then moved to Europe with her daughters. After the war ended, Frances moved to East Orange, New Jersey. She lived there with her daughter Julia and her son-in-law Edward White Adams.
Helping Women in Need
Frances continued her important civic work in New Jersey. She established the Good Shepherd home, which was a special place to help women.
