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CLARA BARTON

© Mary M. Alward

Clara Barton was born on December 25, 1821 in North Oxford, Massachusetts. Her father, Steven, was a miller and an abolitionist. He believed that everyone should have a good education. Her mother, Sarah, was thrifty, eccentric and had a terrible temper. Though she also believed in abolitionism, she believed in women's rights. She and Steven argued frequently. Clara and her siblings were raised in a volatile home. This made Clara withdrawn and shy. It affected her self-esteem for her entire life.

Clara began her education at three years of age. She excelled in reading, mathematics, writing and geography. Her family encouraged her in her studies. She loved to participate in mock battles with her brothers and often rode her horse bareback. Clara was a tomboy.

In 1832, Clara's brother fell from the rafters of the barn. For two years she nursed David. In her teens, she nursed poor families during a smallpox epidemic. Nursing gave Clara a sense of self-worth.

Clara was very comfortable around children. As a young adult she began teaching, often for nothing. However, Clara needed a job that was more challenging. In the mid 1940's she began teaching classes in a school were supplies and textbooks were inadequate. The children's attendance was sporadic. Clara set out an agenda and presented it at a town meeting. She was delighted when she was presented with a blackboard, a teaching clock, maps and textbooks. The children came to school regularly and excelled in their studies.

Clara dreaded living in this small community for the rest of her life. She felt she needed more education. She enrolled at Clinton Liberal Institute in Clinton, New York. At times she was homesick, but focused on her studies.

Before her education was completed, Clara's mother died. She left Clinton before graduation. She moved to Hightstown, New Jersey. Here, she took a teaching position but left when she found out a newly hired male teacher's salary far exceeded her own.

Clara went to Washington, DC., with her friend, Fanny Childs, to seek employment. While there, she met Charles Mason, the Commissioner of Patents. In July, 1854, Clara began working as a record clerk at the Patent Office. She received the same salary as the male workers. Clara lost this job in 1857, when Mason resigned. Clara visited friends and family in Massachusetts where she took classes in art and French.

Charles Mason returned to the position of Patent Commissioner in December 1860. Clara returned to her former job at the Patent Office. In April, 1861, the Civil War began.

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