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Sarah Blake Sturgis Shaw facts for kids

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Sarah Blake Sturgis Shaw
Sarah Blake Sturgis.png
Portrait from 1835 by Francis Alexander
Born
Sarah Blake Sturgis

(1815-08-31)August 31, 1815
Died December 31, 1902(1902-12-31) (aged 87)
Occupation Activist, philanthropist
Spouse(s) Francis George Shaw
Children Robert Gould Shaw, Josephine Shaw Lowell

Sarah Blake Shaw (born Sturgis; August 31, 1815 – December 31, 1902) was an important American woman. She worked as an activist and helped many people. Sarah was known for supporting the end of slavery, fighting for women's rights, and helping those in need. She was also against countries taking over other lands.

Early Life and Family

Sarah Blake Sturgis was born on August 31, 1815. Her parents were Nathaniel Russell Sturgis and Susannah Thomsen Parkman. She grew up in Boston. Sarah had an older brother named Russell Sturgis, who became a merchant.

On June 9, 1835, Sarah married Francis George Shaw. Soon after their marriage, the Shaws became part of a church called The Church of The New Jerusalem. They stayed members of this church for many years.

Fighting for Change

Sarah Blake Shaw was a strong believer in fairness and equality.

  • In 1838, she and her husband joined the American Anti-Slavery Society. This group worked to end slavery in the United States.
  • Later, they helped start the Unitarian Church in Staten Island, New York. This church was also a place where people discussed important social issues.

Sarah was a supporter of women's rights. She believed that women should have the same opportunities and freedoms as men. She also spoke out against imperialism, which is when a powerful country takes control of other countries.

A Generous Spirit

Sarah Blake Shaw was a well-known philanthropist. This means she gave a lot of her time and money to help others. She supported many causes that aimed to improve society.

She was the mother of two famous children:

  • Robert Gould Shaw: A brave soldier who led an African American regiment during the American Civil War.
  • Josephine Shaw Lowell: A social worker and reformer who worked to help the poor and improve prison conditions.

Her Legacy

Sarah Blake Shaw was known for her sharp mind and love of learning. She enjoyed art, books, and music. She had an amazing memory and could even recite long parts of poems by famous writers like Shakespeare and Milton.

Sarah Blake Shaw passed away on December 31, 1902, at the age of 87. She left behind a legacy of fighting for justice and helping those in need.

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