Connecticut’s State Heroine – Prudence Crandall
She was born on September 3, 1803 in Hopkinton, Rhode Island.
Prudence Crandall’s family was part of the Quaker community, and unlike other communities at this time, they believed that education was important for men and women.
Prudence Crandall opened a private girl’s academy in 1831 in Canterbury, Connecticut.
She taught the girls a rigorous curriculum, which made her one of the best schools in the state.
In 1833, Prudence Crandall admitted an African American student named Sarah Harris, who was studying to become a teacher for African American children.
Later, she even created a school specifically for African American girls.
Due to attitudes at that time, Prudence Crandall faced many struggles trying to run her schools, but she remained brave.
If you are interested in learning more about Connecticut’s state heroine, check out Prudence Crandall: Woman of Courage by Elizabeth Yates.