Maria Perkins Lawton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Maria Perkins Lawton
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| Born | 1864 |
| Died | 1946 (aged 81–82) |
| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | Richmond Institute, Howard University |
| Occupation | Organizer, lecturer |
| Spouse(s) |
William Rufus Lawton
(m. 1886–1944) |
Maria Coles Perkins Lawton (born April 30, 1864 – died 1946) was an important leader in the women's club movement in the early 1900s. This movement helped women work together for change. She was the president of the Empire State Federation of Women's Clubs for ten years, from 1916 to 1926.
About Maria Lawton
Maria Lawton was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, on April 30, 1864. She went to Lynchburg High School. Later, she studied at the Richmond Institute in Richmond, Virginia. She also attended Howard University in Washington, D.C..
Her Family Life
In 1886, Maria married William Rufus Lawton. They had seven children together. In 1892, the Lawton family moved to Brooklyn, New York. William worked for New York City as a civil servant. This means he worked for the government. He was also a Presbyterian minister, leading churches in New York and New Jersey. Maria became a reporter for a Brooklyn newspaper called the Standard Union. Both Maria and William were very active in their African-American community in Brooklyn.
Working for Change
Maria Lawton became very involved with the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs. She strongly believed that organizing groups could make life better. She worked to improve the lives of African-American women and children.
After the Nineteenth Amendment was passed, women gained the right to vote. Maria then became active in politics. She joined a group called the League of Republican Colored Women.
Maria also cared about workers' rights. In the 1920s, she joined the labor movement. In 1924, she represented New York State at a special meeting. This meeting was called the Labor Conference of Women.
Maria Perkins Lawton passed away in 1946. She lived two years longer than her husband.
Her Lasting Impact
Maria Lawton's work is still remembered today. The Albany chapter of the Empire State Federation of Women’s Clubs is named after her. It is called the "Maria C. Lawton Civic and Cultural Club."
