Page:The part taken by women in American history.djvu/747

 Emma Willard, born in Berlin, Conn., in February, 1787, was one of the women whose names received votes for a place in the Hall of Fame. Her biographer, Dr. John Lord, in summarizing her claim for immortality in the hearts of her fellow-citizens, declares that her glory is in giving prominence to the cause of woman's education. In this cause she rendered priceless service. When we remember the institution she founded and conducted; the six thousand young women whom she educated, many of them gratuitously; when it is borne in mind the numerous books she wrote to be used in schools and the great favor with which these books have generally been received; when we think of the zealous energy in various ways which she put forth for more than half a century to elevate the standard of education of her sex, it would be difficult to find a woman who, in her age or country, was more useful or will longer be remembered as both good and great. Not for original genius, not for immortal work of art, not for a character free from blemishes and blots, does she claim an exalted place among women, but as a benefactor of her country and of her sex. In this influence she shed luster around the home, and gave dignity to the human soul.

Emma Willard was deeply religious, and never lost sight of the highest and noblest influence in her educational work. Beautiful hymns which she composed were sung by her pupils in the "Troy Female Seminary," of which, for many years, she was the head.