Jones, Rebecca (1739–1818)

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Jones, Rebecca (1739–1818)

American Quaker minister. Born July 8, 1739, in Philadelphia, PA; died April 15, 1818, in Philadelphia; dau. of William Jones (sailor) and Mary Jones (teacher).

Widely known woman minister in Society of Friends in America, began speaking at Friends worship meetings (1758); combined ministry and teaching in mother's school for girls; traveled throughout British Isles to minister and speak to 1,578 worship meetings and 1,120 Friends meetings for servants, apprentices, and laborers (1784–88); upon returning to US, continued to preach, correspond, and perform local charity.