Henrietta Hooker facts for kids

Henrietta Edgecomb Hooker (born December 12, 1851 – died May 13, 1929) was an amazing American scientist who studied plants, called a botanist. She was also a teacher. She was one of the very first women in the United States to get a special advanced degree, a Ph.D., in plant science. Henrietta was born in Gardiner, Maine and passed away in Holyoke, Massachusetts.

Early Life and First Jobs

Henrietta Hooker was born in 1851. Sadly, she became an orphan when she was only seven years old. At sixteen, she started working in a cotton factory in New England. After just one week, she looked for a different job. Henrietta then became a teacher. She taught in public schools in Vermont from 1869 to 1870. She also taught at the Academy of West Charleston from 1870 to 1871.

Becoming a Plant Scientist

In 1871, Hooker began studying at Mount Holyoke Female Seminary. She graduated from there in 1873. She continued her studies at several universities. These included the MIT, Syracuse University, the University of Berlin, and the University of Chicago.

Hooker earned her Ph.D. from Syracuse University in 1889. A Ph.D. is a very high university degree. It shows someone is an expert in their field. She was one of the first women in the United States to earn a Ph.D. in plant science. By 1899, she was one of only two teachers with a Ph.D. at Mount Holyoke.

Studying Parasitic Plants

Henrietta Hooker's special research focused on a type of plant called Cuscuta. These plants are also known as Dodder. Dodder plants are unique because they are parasitic. This means they get their food and water from other plants. Hooker studied how these plants grew and developed.

Teaching and Legacy

Hooker taught at Mount Holyoke for 35 years. She led the botany department there. She worked hard to make the plant science courses better. She also wanted to improve the labs and equipment for students.

Even after she retired in 1908, Henrietta Hooker stayed connected to Mount Holyoke. She raised special chickens called Buff Orpington chickens. These chickens won prizes, and she donated her winnings to the college. In 1923, Mount Holyoke gave her an honorary Sc.D. This was another special degree to honor her achievements.

Henrietta Hooker's important papers and research notes are kept at the Mount Holyoke College Archives. They help us learn more about her work.