Frances Ellen Watkins Harper House
Frances Ellen Watkins Harper (1825–1911) was a remarkable African American poet, author, lecturer, and social activist whose influence extended across the 19th century. Born free in Baltimore, Maryland, Harper grew up in a family of free African Americans who were active in various social causes, including abolitionism and women's rights. Her early experiences with loss—becoming an orphan by age three—instilled in her a sense of resilience and determination that would characterize her advocacy throughout her life.
Harper began her career as a teacher and an activist and spent a significant portion of her life in Philadelphia. She moved to the city in the 1850s, becoming an active part of its vibrant abolitionist and women's rights communities. Philadelphia, with its rich history in the fight against slavery and its pivotal role in various social and political movements, provided a supportive environment for Harper's activism and literary pursuits.
While in Philadelphia, Harper engaged with influential figures in the abolitionist movement, participated in anti-slavery activities, and contributed to publications that advocated for social justice. Her involvement in the city's dynamic intellectual and activist circles further elevated her status as a leading African American writer and advocate.
Harper's time in Philadelphia coincided with a critical period in American history marked by the Civil War and the Reconstruction era. Her residence in the city allowed her to contribute significantly to the discourse on race, gender, and equality. Philadelphia remained an essential hub for her activism and literary endeavors, shaping the trajectory of her influential career.