Prout, Mary Ann (1801–1884)

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Prout, Mary Ann (1801–1884)

African-American school founder and educator. Name variations: Aunt Mary Prout. Born, possibly in Baltimore, Maryland, Feb 14, 1801 (some sources cite 1800, while another source maintains that she was born a slave in South River, Maryland); died in Baltimore, 1884; dau. of mixed-African parentage.

Founded a day school in Baltimore (c. 1830), where she taught for over 30 years; after the school closed (1867), continued to pursue humanitarian work, becoming one of two black trustees of the Gregory Aged Women's Home, also in Baltimore; additionally served as president of the association in charge of the home, the National Reform Educational Association; founded a secret order (1867) which evolved into the Independent Order of St. Luke, a black organization which provided financial aid to the sick and funds for burial of the dead.

See also Women in World History.