Mary Merriam Abbott
Mary M. Abbott Grammar School
Born in Waterbury on 27 September 1855
Died on 23 March 1907
Buried at the famed historic Riverside Cemetery in Waterbury
Born in Waterbury on 27 September 1855
Died on 23 March 1907
Buried at the famed historic Riverside Cemetery in Waterbury
Mary Merriam Abbott, daughter of Anson F. and Nancy Merriman Abbott, was a pioneering educator, intellectual, and social activist hailing from Waterbury, Connecticut. She played a significant role in shaping the educational landscape for women during a time when collegiate education for women was still a relatively new concept.
Abbott received her primary education in the Waterbury school system and went on to attend Vassar College. In 1878, she graduated from Vassar and began her teaching career at Saint Margaret's Collegiate School, located at the intersection of Cooke and Grove Streets. However, her true aspiration was to establish a school of her own.
In 1883, Abbott, in collaboration with Mrs. J. H. Yerkes, founded the Hillside Avenue School near Cliff Street. Later, the school was relocated to the corner of Hillside Avenue and Central Avenue. Notably, the school emphasized the study of astronomy, with a telescope proudly mounted on its rooftop. Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties, the school closed its doors in 1892.
After the closure of her school, Abbott returned to her alma mater, Waterbury High School (later known as Crosby), where she taught English until 1907. Her passion for education extended beyond the classroom, and she became actively involved in various clubs and organizations. She served as the president of the State Federation of Clubs, where she contributed her leadership skills and advocacy for educational initiatives.
Recognized for her eloquence and engaging speaking style, Abbott frequently delivered lectures on educational topics across the country. In 1888, she participated in a national lecture series that featured distinguished intellectuals such as Horace Greeley. During her lecture in Waterbury, she spoke on the subject of astronomy, showcasing her expertise in the field.
Abbott's dedication to education continued to impact future generations. The Women's Council of Education, a member of the Connecticut Congress, established a scholarship fund of $5,000 in her memory at what is now known as Connecticut College in New London. This scholarship fund, created in 1907, continues to provide opportunities for students pursuing higher education.
In 1914, the Waterbury Board of Education honored Mary M. Abbott by naming a new school located at 250 Hill Street the Mary M. Abbott Grammar School. This tribute served as a testament to her enduring contributions to education and her significant impact on the Waterbury community.
Mary Merriam Abbott's legacy as an educator, intellectual, and advocate for education lives on through the students she taught, the lectures she delivered, and the schools and scholarships that bear her name. Her commitment to expanding educational opportunities for women and her dedication to the pursuit of knowledge have left an indelible mark on the history of Waterbury and beyond.
Mary M. Abbott Grammar School, not pictured above, probably never looked anything like this.