Hortense Parker facts for kids

Hortense Parker Gilliam (born Hortense Parker) lived from 1859 to 1938. She made history as the first known African-American person to graduate from Mount Holyoke College in 1883. Hortense was a talented music teacher. She taught piano and music in schools for many years.

Early Life and Learning

Hortense Parker was born in Ripley, Ohio. She was the fourth of six children. Her parents were John Parker and Miranda Parker. Her mother was born free. Her father was born into slavery but bought his freedom. John Parker became a famous abolitionist, helping many enslaved people escape. He was also an inventor and businessman. Before the American Civil War, he helped hundreds of slaves find freedom through the Underground Railroad. Their family home is now a special place called the John P. Parker House. It is a National Historic Landmark.

Hortense's parents made sure all their children received a good education. Hortense and her two younger sisters studied music. They also learned other school subjects. Hortense went to Mount Holyoke Female Seminary. She graduated in 1883. This made her the first known African-American graduate of the college.

Teaching Music

Hortense Parker taught music in several cities. She taught in Kansas City, Missouri from 1906 to 1913. She worked at Lincoln School, which was later called W.W. Yates.

Marriage and Family Life

In 1913, Hortense Parker married James Marcus Gilliam. He was a graduate of Cornell University. They moved to St. Louis, where Hortense's brother Horatio Parker lived. James Gilliam worked as a school principal for most of his career. Hortense Parker Gilliam continued to teach music for many years. She passed away on December 9, 1938.

Her Legacy

Hortense Parker Gilliam was honored for her achievements. As the first African-American graduate of Mount Holyoke, she was featured in a special display. This display was called Our Path: Students of Color at Mt. Holyoke. It was shown at a college conference in 2007.