Myrtilla Miner facts for kids
Myrtilla Miner (born March 4, 1815, in Brookfield, New York – died December 17, 1864, in Washington, D.C.) was an American teacher and a strong supporter of ending slavery. She is famous for starting a school for African American girls. She faced many challenges because of racism, but her school grew to become the only public university in Washington, D.C.
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Early Life and Education
Myrtilla Miner grew up in New York. She went to school at the Clover Street Seminary in Rochester, New York. After finishing her studies, she became a teacher. She taught at different schools.
Facing Challenges in Mississippi
In 1846, Myrtilla taught at the Newton Female Institute in Whitesville, Mississippi. While there, she wanted to teach African American girls. However, she was not allowed to do so. This experience showed her the unfairness of the time. It made her even more determined to help.
Starting a School for Black Girls
In 1851, Myrtilla Miner decided to open her own school. She started the Normal School for Colored Girls in Washington, D.C.. This was a brave step because slavery was still legal in the United States. Many people were against education for African Americans.
Growth and Support
Myrtilla's school quickly became popular. In just two months, the number of students grew from 6 to 40. Even though some people in the community were hostile, the school did well. Many people supported her efforts.
The Quakers, a religious group, sent money to help. Famous author Harriet Beecher Stowe also donated $1,000. This money came from the sales of her famous book, Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Finding a Permanent Home
The school had to move three times in its first two years. This was because of the strong opposition it faced. But in 1854, the school found a permanent home. It settled on a 3-acre (1.2-hectare) piece of land. This land had a house and a barn on the edge of the city.
Focus on Teacher Training
In 1856, a group of trustees took over the care of the school. Important people like Henry Ward Beecher and Johns Hopkins were part of this group. The school offered basic lessons and taught skills for the home. But its main goal was to train Black women to become teachers. This was very important for the future of education.
Legacy of Myrtilla Miner
Myrtilla Miner led the school through its successful early years. However, her health began to fail. In 1857, Emily Howland took over as the school's leader. Myrtilla went to California in 1861 to try and get better.
Sadly, she had a carriage accident in 1864. This ended her hope of getting well. Myrtilla Miner died shortly after returning to Washington, D.C. She is buried in Oak Hill Cemetery in Georgetown, Washington, D.C..
School's Transformation
Myrtilla's School closed during the American Civil War. After the war, it reopened. Later, it joined with other local schools. Together, they became the University of the District of Columbia. This university is still helping students today.
Myrtilla Miner's work is remembered. Miner Elementary School in Washington, D.C., is named in her honor.
