Emma George Latchem
Orange, Orange County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(July 15, 1854-March 27, 1929) Born in Quitman, Texas, Emma (George) Latchem came to Orange in 1871 after her husband died. Mrs. Latchem began teaching in 1873 in a private school. She joined the public school system when it opened in 1884. Devoted to teaching, she helped found the mothers and teachers club in 1908 which worked to improve classroom conditions. She was a charter member of the Orange Eastern Star. After 42 years of teaching, she retired in 1915. Recorded - 1979
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Widowed young, Emma George Latchem came to Orange in 1871 and began teaching two years later in a private school, joining the public system when it opened in 1884. Over forty-two years in the classroom she also helped found a mothers and teachers club in 1908 to improve conditions for her students, retiring only in 1915.
Why it matters
Latchem's long career reflects the quiet, essential work of women who built public education in Texas towns and organized to make schools better for the children in them.
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Related people
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Themes & tags
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