Sarah-Maria Buxton facts for kids
Sarah-Maria Buxton (born in 1789, died August 18, 1839) was an important social reformer. She worked to make society better and helped end slavery. She was also a close friend and partner of Anna Gurney, who was a smart scholar and helped many people.
Early Life and Family
Sarah-Maria Buxton was born in 1789. Her father was Thomas-Fowell Buxton, and her mother was Anna. She was the sister of Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton, 1st Baronet. He was a Member of Parliament and also worked to end slavery.
Her brother Thomas married Hannah Gurney. Hannah was the first cousin of Anna Gurney. Anna later became Sarah-Maria's close companion.
Working for Change
After her mother remarried, Sarah-Maria went to live at Northrepps. She lived with her cousin Anna Gurney and Anna's mother. After Anna's mother passed away in 1825, Sarah-Maria and Anna moved to Northrepps Cottage.
They became known as the "Cottage ladies." They often called themselves "partners." Sarah-Maria and Anna worked together on many projects.
Sarah-Maria and Anna were very involved in the fight against slavery. Sarah-Maria's brother, Thomas Fowell Buxton, was a leader in the anti-slavery movement. He asked for their help.
They collected many important papers and facts. This information was given to the government to support the anti-slavery movement. Their work helped save many lives and support important missions.
Sarah-Maria, Anna, and other family members worked hard. They gathered a lot of information about colonies. This helped the anti-slavery cause greatly.
Community Work and Legacy
Sarah-Maria and Anna also built a school in Overstrand. The children from Overstrand often came to their house for lessons. They cared deeply about education.
Sarah-Maria Buxton passed away on August 18, 1839. She was 50 years old. Anna Gurney continued to live in the cottage after Sarah-Maria's death.
When Anna Gurney died in 1857, she was buried next to Sarah-Maria. They rest together in St. Martin's Church in Overstrand. Their gravestone shows how close they were. It says they were "partners and chosen sisters."
Portrait
A painter named George Richmond created a portrait of Sarah-Maria Buxton. This painting is kept at Colne House. There is also a matching portrait of Anna Gurney.
