Higher Education for Women

Sunday, April 9, 1871

Evanston’s First Congregational Church is the site of a discussion of the establishment in Evanston of a new college for the education of women.  Frances Willard, who has been elected president of that college, is the main speaker.  Her topic is “People Out of Whom More Might Have Been Made.”  Willard explains that she has long been inspired by Margaret Fuller Ossoli’s declaration on behalf of women, “Our only object in the world is to grow.”  Willard maintains that women should pursue higher education.  She asks her audience for three things: their confidence, their daughters, and their contributions.”  The Chicago fire will make it impossible to raise the funds necessary for an independent college for women, but one will be created in association with Northwestern University.