Louise Whitfield Carnegie facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Louise Whitfield Carnegie
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Louise Whitfield
March 7, 1857 New York City, New York, U.S.
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| Died | June 24, 1946 (aged 89) |
| Resting place | Sleepy Hollow Cemetery |
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| Children | Margaret Carnegie Miller |
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Louise Whitfield Carnegie (born March 7, 1857 – died June 24, 1946) was an amazing American who loved to help others. She was a philanthropist, which means she gave money and time to good causes. Louise was also the wife of Andrew Carnegie, a very successful businessman and fellow philanthropist.
About Louise Whitfield Carnegie
Her Early Life
Louise Whitfield was born on March 7, 1857. She grew up in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. Her father, John D. Whitfield, was a rich textile merchant. Her mother was Fannie Davis. Louise's family came from England in the 1600s.
As her father became more successful, their family moved to nicer parts of New York City. They lived in Gramercy Park and later on West 48th Street near Fifth Avenue.
Her Adult Life
When Louise was 23, she met Andrew Carnegie. He was 45 years old at the time. They met through Louise's father.
On April 22, 1887, Louise (who was 30) married Andrew (who was 51). Their wedding was a small, private ceremony at her family's home in New York City. As wedding gifts, Andrew gave Louise a home and money to use each year. Louise signed an agreement that meant she would not claim Andrew's huge fortune. Instead, Andrew gave her special investments that provided her with her own yearly income.
Ten years later, in 1897, Louise and Andrew had their only child, a daughter named Margaret. Louise and Margaret were part of the Brick Presbyterian Church. Later, they joined the Church of the Divine Paternity. Louise and Andrew even helped pay for a new organ for this church.
Louise Whitfield Carnegie passed away in Manhattan on June 24, 1946. She was 89 years old. She was buried in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Sleepy Hollow, New York.
Helping Others: Philanthropy
Louise was a very important member of the board of The Carnegie Corporation. She stayed on the board until she died. She worked closely with Andrew Carnegie. Together, they helped create over 2,500 libraries between 1883 and 1929. Imagine how many people learned to read and explore new ideas because of them!
After Andrew passed away in 1919, Louise kept giving to many good causes. She supported groups like the American Red Cross and the Y.W.C.A.. She also gave money to the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. During World War II, she helped many relief funds. She even gave $100,000 to the Union Theological Seminary. In the summers, she enjoyed spending time at Skibo Castle.
