Mary B. Isaacs
Canadian, Hemphill County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(1854 - 1930) Born in Massachusetts. Came to Texas, 1888, as Hemphill County's first public school teacher. Often saw Indians darken the schoolroom windows trying to watch her classes recite. Married Will C. Isaacs in 1892. Founder and guiding spirit of The Canadian Women's Christian Temperance Union, an organization she served for 44 years. Under her leadership, W. C. T. U. building doubled as community center and now houses the city library. Achievements of this pioneer teacher and civic leader were commemorated in naming of the Mary B. Isaacs Elementary School. (1967)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born in Massachusetts in 1854, Mary B. Isaacs came to Texas in 1888 as Hemphill County's first public school teacher, sometimes glancing up to find curious Indians peering through the schoolroom windows. After marrying Will C. Isaacs in 1892, she founded and led the Canadian Woman's Christian Temperance Union for 44 years, and the W.C.T.U. building she guided into being served as a community center and now houses the city library. Her legacy was honored in the naming of the Mary B. Isaacs Elementary School.
Why it matters
Isaacs embodies the pioneering women who brought schooling and civic institutions to the frontier, shaping Panhandle communities through education and reform.
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Related people
- · Mary B. Isaacs
- · Will C. Isaacs
Themes & tags
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