Harriet Purvis Jr. facts for kids

Harriet Purvis Jr. (1839 – 1904), also known as Hattie Purvis, was an important African-American activist. She fought to end slavery (an abolitionist). She also worked for women's right to vote (a suffragist). Plus, she was part of the temperance movement, which aimed to reduce alcohol use. Harriet Purvis Jr. was a key leader in the fight for women's voting rights in America. She even worked closely with famous activist Susan B. Anthony.

Early Life and Family

Harriet Purvis Jr. was born in 1839. Her parents were Harriet Forten Purvis and Robert Purvis. Both of her parents were well-known activists. Her grandfather was James Forten, another important figure.

Harriet grew up in a home that was very active in the Underground Railroad. This was a secret network that helped enslaved people escape to freedom. She went to school at Friends Eagleswood School. She also attended Theodore Dwight Weld's Raritan Bay Union school in Perth Amboy, New Jersey.

Fighting for Change

Harriet Purvis Jr. was a member of the Philadelphia Female Anti-Slavery Society. This group worked to end slavery. She helped raise money for their important cause.

In 1866, she attended the National Woman's Rights Convention. Here, she joined the American Equal Rights Association (AERA). This group worked for equal rights for all people. She served as the secretary for AERA from 1866 to 1869.

Harriet was also on the executive committee of the Pennsylvania Woman's Suffrage Association. This group focused on getting women the right to vote. She became a delegate and the first African-American president of the National Woman's Suffrage Association. This was a big step for women's rights.

Later Life

Harriet Purvis Jr. passed away on April 4, 1904. She died in Watertown, Massachusetts. Her work helped pave the way for future generations.