Her name at birth was Eleanor C. Wright, but she became widely known as Ellen.
==============================
An obituary in THE AMERICAN FRIEND, February 4, 1937, p. 62:
ELLEN C. WRIGHT
Ellen C. Wright, affectionately called "Teacher Ellen" by the thousands of Wilmington College graduates and former students, and one of Wilmington's most beloved, residents, died January 8, at her home in Wilmington, Ohio, at the age of ninety-one years.
Despite her general decline in health, she never lost her keen interest in people, whether they were close friends or acquaintances of made many years ago during her days at Wilmington College. Until recently she kept a diary of the events in the lives of those who attended her classes, and she eagerly awaited the daily newspapers.
Ellen Wright was one of four members of the first graduating class of Wilmington College, receiving her A.B. degree in 1875. She served on the Faculty of Wilmington College for forty-five years, from 1875 to 1920, as Professor of Latin, with the exception of one year, 1888-1889, when she obtained a leave of absence to take graduate work at Bryn Mawr. She was Librarian for some years and taught preparatory English. When she retired from the Faculty, the Board of Trustees appointed her Professor of Latin Emeritus.
She was born in Highland County, November 9, 1846, a member of an old family, widely known in numerous other Friends communities as well as in her home neighborhood. Her father, Joseph Wright, was a prominent Friends minister and her brother, Jonathan Wright, was widely known in educational circles and was a faculty member in the Science Department of Wilmington College.
She was a member of the Wilmington Meeting, and was active in the affairs of the church while her health permitted. Her sister, Emma Wright Hale, with whom she lived, is the only immediate surviving relative. Several nephews and nieces remain.
Largely attended funeral services were held at the Wilmington Friends Church, A. Ward Applegate officiating. Eight persons spoke of her love and the influence she exerted on their lives and paid tribute to her sterling attributes. Interment was in New Vienna cemetery. Members of the Wilmington College Board of Trustees and Faculty served as active and honorary pall bearers.
A tree seeding of the Logan Elm stands on the College Campus, planted and dedicated to her by a member of the Federated Women's Clubs of America. A memorial service was held in the College Chapel when faculty members paid her honor.
=================
From an unknown publication, no page number, beneath a photo of her:
TEACHER ELLEN C. WRIGHT
1846-1937
The passing of Teacher Ellen C. Wright on January 8, at the age of 91 years, was a sorrowful event in the history of Wilmington College, for from the very date of its founding her life was inseparably bound up in that of the institution which she loved and served so well. In the College Yearbook of 1907, which was dedicated to her, we read these words: "If the history of Wilmington College be compared to a book, Miss Wright is the binding; if to a tapestry, Miss Wright is the warp; if to a painting, Miss Wright is the background."
Teacher Ellen was a member of the first graduating class of Wilmington College, receiving her A. B. degree in 1875. She at once became a member of the Faculty; and, with the exception of one year spent in graduate study at Bryn Mawr, she devoted the following 45 years of her life to teaching in Wilmington College. During this period she served as Professor of Latin, Librarian, and Secretary of the Faculty, and was actively engaged in promoting the work of various Literary Clubs and Christian Associations. She had the honor of selecting the College colors, Green and White, and for many year every diploma issued by the College was tied by her own hands. In 1920, the Board of Trustees conferred upon her the title of Professor of Latin Emeritus, and she retired from active duties. In these later years her interest in all person and things connected with the College were as keen as ever before and she was a frequent visitor at various college functions until her failing health made this impossible.
Today the memory of her serene face and beautiful life is deeply engraved upon the minds of the thousands of Wilmington College alumni and students who sat in her classroom as well as those who in any way came under her kindly influence.
===================
From HISTORY OF CLINTON COUNTY, OHIO, by Albert J. Brown [Indianapolis, B.F. Bowen & Co., Inc., 1915], pp. 480-481:
MISS ELLEN C. WRIGHT.
Descended on both the maternal and paternal sides from men and women who have been prominent in the history of this country, and especially in the history of the Friends church ever since the coming of William Penn to America, Miss Ellen C. Wright is a graduate of the first class which finished at Wilmington College, in 1875, and for forty years has been a teacher in Wilmington College. During this period she held the chair of Latin in this institution, and is now the librarian of the college. An ardent Friend, she is also a wonderful teacher, and is widely known as "Teacher Ellen." On her maternal side she is descended from Ellen Cowgill, a widow, who, with five children, was a passenger on the good ship "Welcome," which in 1682 brought William Penn to America. Ellen Cowgill was the great-great-great-great-grandmother of Miss Ellen C. Wright, her maternal grandfather, Henry Cowgill, having been the son of Henry II, who was the son of Henry I, who was the son of John, who was the son of the aforesaid Ellen Cowgill.
Miss Wright's father and mother were Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright, and on her paternal side she is also descended from substantial Quaker ancestry. Her father was born on November 24, 1812, and died on November 2, 1907. Her mother was born in Highland county, Ohio, on December 24, 1815, and died on February 10, 1892. Joseph Wright was the son of John and Hannah (Gilbert) Wright, the former of whom was born in Bedford county, Virginia, and who was the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Wright, who moved from Bedford county, Virginia, to Columbiana county, Ohio. The father of Joseph Wright, Sr., was a large slave owner, but remarked that Joseph had gone to Ohio and joined the Quakers and "would not want my property," so Joseph, Sr., got none from his will. Hannah (Gilbert) Wright, who was born in Louden [sic] county, Virginia, was the daughter of Joseph and Ann Gilbert, who removed from Louden [sic] county, Virginia, to Columbiana county, Ohio, after Hannah was grown. John and Hannah (Gilbert) Wright were farmers and early settlers in Highland county, Ohio. John died about 1821, and after his death his widow married Samuel Coffin, both of whom lived to a good old age.
Henry and Eleanor (Barrett) Cowgill, who were the parents of Miss Wright's mother, were both natives of Virginia, and married in 1794 in Franklin county. After their marriage they removed to Culpeper county, Virginia, and lived on a farm for thirteen years, after which they removed to Paint township, Highland county, Ohio. Miss Wright's mother was the youngest of ten children, all of the members of the family having been Friends.
John Wright, the grandfather of our subject, was a well educated and well informed man, who taught school and preached in the Quaker church. He was also a farmer by occupation. Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright were married on July 1, 1841, and celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on July 1, 1891. Joseph Wright was five years of age when his parents removed from Virginia to Highland county, Ohio. [No--they came from Columbiana Co. to Highland Co.]. He received a good education, having attended the Harveysburg high school, after which he taught school eight years in Highland county, Ohio. A farmer later in life, he purcased a farm located near Clear Creek, Ohio, and paid for it gradually. He was a staunch Quaker, and in 1855 was recorded as a minister by the Clear Creek monthly meeting. Later hundred of people were converted as the result of his labors. He preached many funerals and married many couples, and was one of the founders of Wilmington College, of which for twenty years he was one of the board of managers. He preached regularly at his own meetings and in early life drew no pay for it, since the Quakers believed that the Gospel ought to be free.
Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright were the parents of seven children: Lindley Murray died at the age of five years and four months; Henry C., who is deceased, was a dealer in vehicles in Hillsboro, Ohio; Eleanor C., who is better known as Ellen, is the subject of this sketch; David S. lives at Cedar Falls, Iowa, where for forty years he has been a teacher of mathematics in the Iowa State Teachers College; Jonathan B. lives in Wilmington, and for twenty years taught in Wilmington College, and later for several years in the Wilmington high school; Elwood, who is deceased, was a farmer and owned a saw-mill; Emma married Alfred Hale, who died in November, 1914, and who was a farmer by occupation; his widow, Mrs. Emma Hale, lives with Miss Wright in her house on Fife avenue, which Miss Wright built in 1894.
Miss Ellen Wright attended the public schools of Highland county, Ohio, and later Earlham College at Richmond, Indiana, which is a well-known educational institution maintained by the Friends church. Subsequently, she entered Wilmington College, which had just been opened, and four years later was graduated with the first class. During 1887 and 1888 she was a student at Bryn Mawr College.
After Miss Wright's graduation from Wilmington College she began teaching in the college and has taught there ever since, a period of forty years. As heretofore noted, she occupied the chair of Latin, and is now the librarian of the college.
An ardent and faithful member of the Friends church, Miss Wright is also one of the most successful teachers who has ever figured in the educational life of Clinton county, and especially in the educational life of Wilmington College. Her good work during a period of almost half a century can scarcefully be overestimated, yet there are scattered over this country thousands of young men and women who would gladly add their blessing to the beloved spirit which guided them in their younger days. Long popular with the faculty and the students, "Teacher Ellen," from standpoint of effective and useful service, is unsurpassed by any other person living in this county.
===========
Obituary clipping from Clinton County, Ohio, historical society, w/ handwritten date of Jan (8 or 9?), 1937:
"Teacher Ellen" Wright
Expires At Age Of 91
Lingering Illess Fatal To
Beloved Resident of City
Friday at 7:15 a.m.
TAUGHT AT W. C. 45 YEARS
Funeral Services To Be Held
In Friends Church Sunday
At 2 P.M.
Miss Ellen C. Wright, "Teacher Ellen" to the thousands of Wilmington College graduates and former students and one of Wilmington's most beloved residents, died of infirmities and complications at her residence, 235 Fife Avenue, Friday at 7:15 A. M. She was 91 years old.
In failing health for more than three years, Miss Wright became bedfast three weeks ago and relatives were in constant attendance at her bedside. Her condition became critical two days ago.
Despite her decline in health, she never lost her keen interest in people, whether they were close friends or acquaintances of many years ago during her days at Wilmington College. Until recently she kept a diary of the events in the lives of those who attended her classes and she was an avid reader of the daily newspapers.
On W. C. Faculty 45 Years
Miss Wright served on the faculty of Wilmington College as professor of Latin from 1875 to 1920, with the exception of one year, 1888-89, when she obtained a leave of absence to do graduate work at Bryn Mawr. She was one of four members of the first graduating class of the college and received her A.B. degree in 1875. The other members were Aaron J. Hunt, Mrs. Elma Doster Cook and Mrs. Anna Lewis Smith. After 45 years of service on the faculty she retired and the Board of Trustees appointed her professor of Latin emeritus.
During her tenure at the college, she became known as "Teacher Ellen" and was one of the most beloved of instructors. Graduates and former students who left Wilmington after their college days and returned in later years invariably went to visit her in her home. After her retirement from the faculty she always retained her interest in college activities and the affairs of its organizations.
Honored On Birthday
On her 91st birthday, which she spent quietly at her home, she received hundreds of greetings from her former students. Many called to pay their respects.
Miss Wright, the daughter of Joseph and Lydia Wright, was born in Penn Township, Highland County, November 9, 1846. She was educated in Highland County schools and later became a teacher there. She was a birthright member of Wilmington Friends Church. She was active in affairs of the church while her health permitted. She also was interested in the work of the Y. W. C. A. while at the college.
Miss Wright is survived by one sister, Mrs. Emma Wright Hale, with whom she made her home, a niece, Mrs. Daisy Rannells of this city, and the following nephews, Probate Judge Hugh J. Wright, G. C. Wright, New Vienna; Harry A. Wright, Highland, and Benson F. Wright, of Springfield, who were at her bedside during her critical illness.
Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. A. Ward Applegate, pastor of the Friends Church, in the church Sunday at 2 P. M. Interment will be in New Vienna cemetery.
The body will lie in state in the church from 1 to 2 P. M. Sunday.
Friends may call at the residence Saturday from 2 to 9 P. M.
Members of the college family and board of trustees will be pallbearers.
=================
See the link below to the memorial for her father, Joseph Wright for "Joseph Wright's Recollections as taken down by his daughter, Ellen C. Wright, New Vienna, [Ohio,] 11, 29, 1891."
==============================
An obituary in THE AMERICAN FRIEND, February 4, 1937, p. 62:
ELLEN C. WRIGHT
Ellen C. Wright, affectionately called "Teacher Ellen" by the thousands of Wilmington College graduates and former students, and one of Wilmington's most beloved, residents, died January 8, at her home in Wilmington, Ohio, at the age of ninety-one years.
Despite her general decline in health, she never lost her keen interest in people, whether they were close friends or acquaintances of made many years ago during her days at Wilmington College. Until recently she kept a diary of the events in the lives of those who attended her classes, and she eagerly awaited the daily newspapers.
Ellen Wright was one of four members of the first graduating class of Wilmington College, receiving her A.B. degree in 1875. She served on the Faculty of Wilmington College for forty-five years, from 1875 to 1920, as Professor of Latin, with the exception of one year, 1888-1889, when she obtained a leave of absence to take graduate work at Bryn Mawr. She was Librarian for some years and taught preparatory English. When she retired from the Faculty, the Board of Trustees appointed her Professor of Latin Emeritus.
She was born in Highland County, November 9, 1846, a member of an old family, widely known in numerous other Friends communities as well as in her home neighborhood. Her father, Joseph Wright, was a prominent Friends minister and her brother, Jonathan Wright, was widely known in educational circles and was a faculty member in the Science Department of Wilmington College.
She was a member of the Wilmington Meeting, and was active in the affairs of the church while her health permitted. Her sister, Emma Wright Hale, with whom she lived, is the only immediate surviving relative. Several nephews and nieces remain.
Largely attended funeral services were held at the Wilmington Friends Church, A. Ward Applegate officiating. Eight persons spoke of her love and the influence she exerted on their lives and paid tribute to her sterling attributes. Interment was in New Vienna cemetery. Members of the Wilmington College Board of Trustees and Faculty served as active and honorary pall bearers.
A tree seeding of the Logan Elm stands on the College Campus, planted and dedicated to her by a member of the Federated Women's Clubs of America. A memorial service was held in the College Chapel when faculty members paid her honor.
=================
From an unknown publication, no page number, beneath a photo of her:
TEACHER ELLEN C. WRIGHT
1846-1937
The passing of Teacher Ellen C. Wright on January 8, at the age of 91 years, was a sorrowful event in the history of Wilmington College, for from the very date of its founding her life was inseparably bound up in that of the institution which she loved and served so well. In the College Yearbook of 1907, which was dedicated to her, we read these words: "If the history of Wilmington College be compared to a book, Miss Wright is the binding; if to a tapestry, Miss Wright is the warp; if to a painting, Miss Wright is the background."
Teacher Ellen was a member of the first graduating class of Wilmington College, receiving her A. B. degree in 1875. She at once became a member of the Faculty; and, with the exception of one year spent in graduate study at Bryn Mawr, she devoted the following 45 years of her life to teaching in Wilmington College. During this period she served as Professor of Latin, Librarian, and Secretary of the Faculty, and was actively engaged in promoting the work of various Literary Clubs and Christian Associations. She had the honor of selecting the College colors, Green and White, and for many year every diploma issued by the College was tied by her own hands. In 1920, the Board of Trustees conferred upon her the title of Professor of Latin Emeritus, and she retired from active duties. In these later years her interest in all person and things connected with the College were as keen as ever before and she was a frequent visitor at various college functions until her failing health made this impossible.
Today the memory of her serene face and beautiful life is deeply engraved upon the minds of the thousands of Wilmington College alumni and students who sat in her classroom as well as those who in any way came under her kindly influence.
===================
From HISTORY OF CLINTON COUNTY, OHIO, by Albert J. Brown [Indianapolis, B.F. Bowen & Co., Inc., 1915], pp. 480-481:
MISS ELLEN C. WRIGHT.
Descended on both the maternal and paternal sides from men and women who have been prominent in the history of this country, and especially in the history of the Friends church ever since the coming of William Penn to America, Miss Ellen C. Wright is a graduate of the first class which finished at Wilmington College, in 1875, and for forty years has been a teacher in Wilmington College. During this period she held the chair of Latin in this institution, and is now the librarian of the college. An ardent Friend, she is also a wonderful teacher, and is widely known as "Teacher Ellen." On her maternal side she is descended from Ellen Cowgill, a widow, who, with five children, was a passenger on the good ship "Welcome," which in 1682 brought William Penn to America. Ellen Cowgill was the great-great-great-great-grandmother of Miss Ellen C. Wright, her maternal grandfather, Henry Cowgill, having been the son of Henry II, who was the son of Henry I, who was the son of John, who was the son of the aforesaid Ellen Cowgill.
Miss Wright's father and mother were Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright, and on her paternal side she is also descended from substantial Quaker ancestry. Her father was born on November 24, 1812, and died on November 2, 1907. Her mother was born in Highland county, Ohio, on December 24, 1815, and died on February 10, 1892. Joseph Wright was the son of John and Hannah (Gilbert) Wright, the former of whom was born in Bedford county, Virginia, and who was the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Wright, who moved from Bedford county, Virginia, to Columbiana county, Ohio. The father of Joseph Wright, Sr., was a large slave owner, but remarked that Joseph had gone to Ohio and joined the Quakers and "would not want my property," so Joseph, Sr., got none from his will. Hannah (Gilbert) Wright, who was born in Louden [sic] county, Virginia, was the daughter of Joseph and Ann Gilbert, who removed from Louden [sic] county, Virginia, to Columbiana county, Ohio, after Hannah was grown. John and Hannah (Gilbert) Wright were farmers and early settlers in Highland county, Ohio. John died about 1821, and after his death his widow married Samuel Coffin, both of whom lived to a good old age.
Henry and Eleanor (Barrett) Cowgill, who were the parents of Miss Wright's mother, were both natives of Virginia, and married in 1794 in Franklin county. After their marriage they removed to Culpeper county, Virginia, and lived on a farm for thirteen years, after which they removed to Paint township, Highland county, Ohio. Miss Wright's mother was the youngest of ten children, all of the members of the family having been Friends.
John Wright, the grandfather of our subject, was a well educated and well informed man, who taught school and preached in the Quaker church. He was also a farmer by occupation. Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright were married on July 1, 1841, and celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on July 1, 1891. Joseph Wright was five years of age when his parents removed from Virginia to Highland county, Ohio. [No--they came from Columbiana Co. to Highland Co.]. He received a good education, having attended the Harveysburg high school, after which he taught school eight years in Highland county, Ohio. A farmer later in life, he purcased a farm located near Clear Creek, Ohio, and paid for it gradually. He was a staunch Quaker, and in 1855 was recorded as a minister by the Clear Creek monthly meeting. Later hundred of people were converted as the result of his labors. He preached many funerals and married many couples, and was one of the founders of Wilmington College, of which for twenty years he was one of the board of managers. He preached regularly at his own meetings and in early life drew no pay for it, since the Quakers believed that the Gospel ought to be free.
Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright were the parents of seven children: Lindley Murray died at the age of five years and four months; Henry C., who is deceased, was a dealer in vehicles in Hillsboro, Ohio; Eleanor C., who is better known as Ellen, is the subject of this sketch; David S. lives at Cedar Falls, Iowa, where for forty years he has been a teacher of mathematics in the Iowa State Teachers College; Jonathan B. lives in Wilmington, and for twenty years taught in Wilmington College, and later for several years in the Wilmington high school; Elwood, who is deceased, was a farmer and owned a saw-mill; Emma married Alfred Hale, who died in November, 1914, and who was a farmer by occupation; his widow, Mrs. Emma Hale, lives with Miss Wright in her house on Fife avenue, which Miss Wright built in 1894.
Miss Ellen Wright attended the public schools of Highland county, Ohio, and later Earlham College at Richmond, Indiana, which is a well-known educational institution maintained by the Friends church. Subsequently, she entered Wilmington College, which had just been opened, and four years later was graduated with the first class. During 1887 and 1888 she was a student at Bryn Mawr College.
After Miss Wright's graduation from Wilmington College she began teaching in the college and has taught there ever since, a period of forty years. As heretofore noted, she occupied the chair of Latin, and is now the librarian of the college.
An ardent and faithful member of the Friends church, Miss Wright is also one of the most successful teachers who has ever figured in the educational life of Clinton county, and especially in the educational life of Wilmington College. Her good work during a period of almost half a century can scarcefully be overestimated, yet there are scattered over this country thousands of young men and women who would gladly add their blessing to the beloved spirit which guided them in their younger days. Long popular with the faculty and the students, "Teacher Ellen," from standpoint of effective and useful service, is unsurpassed by any other person living in this county.
===========
Obituary clipping from Clinton County, Ohio, historical society, w/ handwritten date of Jan (8 or 9?), 1937:
"Teacher Ellen" Wright
Expires At Age Of 91
Lingering Illess Fatal To
Beloved Resident of City
Friday at 7:15 a.m.
TAUGHT AT W. C. 45 YEARS
Funeral Services To Be Held
In Friends Church Sunday
At 2 P.M.
Miss Ellen C. Wright, "Teacher Ellen" to the thousands of Wilmington College graduates and former students and one of Wilmington's most beloved residents, died of infirmities and complications at her residence, 235 Fife Avenue, Friday at 7:15 A. M. She was 91 years old.
In failing health for more than three years, Miss Wright became bedfast three weeks ago and relatives were in constant attendance at her bedside. Her condition became critical two days ago.
Despite her decline in health, she never lost her keen interest in people, whether they were close friends or acquaintances of many years ago during her days at Wilmington College. Until recently she kept a diary of the events in the lives of those who attended her classes and she was an avid reader of the daily newspapers.
On W. C. Faculty 45 Years
Miss Wright served on the faculty of Wilmington College as professor of Latin from 1875 to 1920, with the exception of one year, 1888-89, when she obtained a leave of absence to do graduate work at Bryn Mawr. She was one of four members of the first graduating class of the college and received her A.B. degree in 1875. The other members were Aaron J. Hunt, Mrs. Elma Doster Cook and Mrs. Anna Lewis Smith. After 45 years of service on the faculty she retired and the Board of Trustees appointed her professor of Latin emeritus.
During her tenure at the college, she became known as "Teacher Ellen" and was one of the most beloved of instructors. Graduates and former students who left Wilmington after their college days and returned in later years invariably went to visit her in her home. After her retirement from the faculty she always retained her interest in college activities and the affairs of its organizations.
Honored On Birthday
On her 91st birthday, which she spent quietly at her home, she received hundreds of greetings from her former students. Many called to pay their respects.
Miss Wright, the daughter of Joseph and Lydia Wright, was born in Penn Township, Highland County, November 9, 1846. She was educated in Highland County schools and later became a teacher there. She was a birthright member of Wilmington Friends Church. She was active in affairs of the church while her health permitted. She also was interested in the work of the Y. W. C. A. while at the college.
Miss Wright is survived by one sister, Mrs. Emma Wright Hale, with whom she made her home, a niece, Mrs. Daisy Rannells of this city, and the following nephews, Probate Judge Hugh J. Wright, G. C. Wright, New Vienna; Harry A. Wright, Highland, and Benson F. Wright, of Springfield, who were at her bedside during her critical illness.
Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. A. Ward Applegate, pastor of the Friends Church, in the church Sunday at 2 P. M. Interment will be in New Vienna cemetery.
The body will lie in state in the church from 1 to 2 P. M. Sunday.
Friends may call at the residence Saturday from 2 to 9 P. M.
Members of the college family and board of trustees will be pallbearers.
=================
See the link below to the memorial for her father, Joseph Wright for "Joseph Wright's Recollections as taken down by his daughter, Ellen C. Wright, New Vienna, [Ohio,] 11, 29, 1891."
Her name at birth was Eleanor C. Wright, but she became widely known as Ellen.
==============================
An obituary in THE AMERICAN FRIEND, February 4, 1937, p. 62:
ELLEN C. WRIGHT
Ellen C. Wright, affectionately called "Teacher Ellen" by the thousands of Wilmington College graduates and former students, and one of Wilmington's most beloved, residents, died January 8, at her home in Wilmington, Ohio, at the age of ninety-one years.
Despite her general decline in health, she never lost her keen interest in people, whether they were close friends or acquaintances of made many years ago during her days at Wilmington College. Until recently she kept a diary of the events in the lives of those who attended her classes, and she eagerly awaited the daily newspapers.
Ellen Wright was one of four members of the first graduating class of Wilmington College, receiving her A.B. degree in 1875. She served on the Faculty of Wilmington College for forty-five years, from 1875 to 1920, as Professor of Latin, with the exception of one year, 1888-1889, when she obtained a leave of absence to take graduate work at Bryn Mawr. She was Librarian for some years and taught preparatory English. When she retired from the Faculty, the Board of Trustees appointed her Professor of Latin Emeritus.
She was born in Highland County, November 9, 1846, a member of an old family, widely known in numerous other Friends communities as well as in her home neighborhood. Her father, Joseph Wright, was a prominent Friends minister and her brother, Jonathan Wright, was widely known in educational circles and was a faculty member in the Science Department of Wilmington College.
She was a member of the Wilmington Meeting, and was active in the affairs of the church while her health permitted. Her sister, Emma Wright Hale, with whom she lived, is the only immediate surviving relative. Several nephews and nieces remain.
Largely attended funeral services were held at the Wilmington Friends Church, A. Ward Applegate officiating. Eight persons spoke of her love and the influence she exerted on their lives and paid tribute to her sterling attributes. Interment was in New Vienna cemetery. Members of the Wilmington College Board of Trustees and Faculty served as active and honorary pall bearers.
A tree seeding of the Logan Elm stands on the College Campus, planted and dedicated to her by a member of the Federated Women's Clubs of America. A memorial service was held in the College Chapel when faculty members paid her honor.
=================
From an unknown publication, no page number, beneath a photo of her:
TEACHER ELLEN C. WRIGHT
1846-1937
The passing of Teacher Ellen C. Wright on January 8, at the age of 91 years, was a sorrowful event in the history of Wilmington College, for from the very date of its founding her life was inseparably bound up in that of the institution which she loved and served so well. In the College Yearbook of 1907, which was dedicated to her, we read these words: "If the history of Wilmington College be compared to a book, Miss Wright is the binding; if to a tapestry, Miss Wright is the warp; if to a painting, Miss Wright is the background."
Teacher Ellen was a member of the first graduating class of Wilmington College, receiving her A. B. degree in 1875. She at once became a member of the Faculty; and, with the exception of one year spent in graduate study at Bryn Mawr, she devoted the following 45 years of her life to teaching in Wilmington College. During this period she served as Professor of Latin, Librarian, and Secretary of the Faculty, and was actively engaged in promoting the work of various Literary Clubs and Christian Associations. She had the honor of selecting the College colors, Green and White, and for many year every diploma issued by the College was tied by her own hands. In 1920, the Board of Trustees conferred upon her the title of Professor of Latin Emeritus, and she retired from active duties. In these later years her interest in all person and things connected with the College were as keen as ever before and she was a frequent visitor at various college functions until her failing health made this impossible.
Today the memory of her serene face and beautiful life is deeply engraved upon the minds of the thousands of Wilmington College alumni and students who sat in her classroom as well as those who in any way came under her kindly influence.
===================
From HISTORY OF CLINTON COUNTY, OHIO, by Albert J. Brown [Indianapolis, B.F. Bowen & Co., Inc., 1915], pp. 480-481:
MISS ELLEN C. WRIGHT.
Descended on both the maternal and paternal sides from men and women who have been prominent in the history of this country, and especially in the history of the Friends church ever since the coming of William Penn to America, Miss Ellen C. Wright is a graduate of the first class which finished at Wilmington College, in 1875, and for forty years has been a teacher in Wilmington College. During this period she held the chair of Latin in this institution, and is now the librarian of the college. An ardent Friend, she is also a wonderful teacher, and is widely known as "Teacher Ellen." On her maternal side she is descended from Ellen Cowgill, a widow, who, with five children, was a passenger on the good ship "Welcome," which in 1682 brought William Penn to America. Ellen Cowgill was the great-great-great-great-grandmother of Miss Ellen C. Wright, her maternal grandfather, Henry Cowgill, having been the son of Henry II, who was the son of Henry I, who was the son of John, who was the son of the aforesaid Ellen Cowgill.
Miss Wright's father and mother were Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright, and on her paternal side she is also descended from substantial Quaker ancestry. Her father was born on November 24, 1812, and died on November 2, 1907. Her mother was born in Highland county, Ohio, on December 24, 1815, and died on February 10, 1892. Joseph Wright was the son of John and Hannah (Gilbert) Wright, the former of whom was born in Bedford county, Virginia, and who was the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Wright, who moved from Bedford county, Virginia, to Columbiana county, Ohio. The father of Joseph Wright, Sr., was a large slave owner, but remarked that Joseph had gone to Ohio and joined the Quakers and "would not want my property," so Joseph, Sr., got none from his will. Hannah (Gilbert) Wright, who was born in Louden [sic] county, Virginia, was the daughter of Joseph and Ann Gilbert, who removed from Louden [sic] county, Virginia, to Columbiana county, Ohio, after Hannah was grown. John and Hannah (Gilbert) Wright were farmers and early settlers in Highland county, Ohio. John died about 1821, and after his death his widow married Samuel Coffin, both of whom lived to a good old age.
Henry and Eleanor (Barrett) Cowgill, who were the parents of Miss Wright's mother, were both natives of Virginia, and married in 1794 in Franklin county. After their marriage they removed to Culpeper county, Virginia, and lived on a farm for thirteen years, after which they removed to Paint township, Highland county, Ohio. Miss Wright's mother was the youngest of ten children, all of the members of the family having been Friends.
John Wright, the grandfather of our subject, was a well educated and well informed man, who taught school and preached in the Quaker church. He was also a farmer by occupation. Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright were married on July 1, 1841, and celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on July 1, 1891. Joseph Wright was five years of age when his parents removed from Virginia to Highland county, Ohio. [No--they came from Columbiana Co. to Highland Co.]. He received a good education, having attended the Harveysburg high school, after which he taught school eight years in Highland county, Ohio. A farmer later in life, he purcased a farm located near Clear Creek, Ohio, and paid for it gradually. He was a staunch Quaker, and in 1855 was recorded as a minister by the Clear Creek monthly meeting. Later hundred of people were converted as the result of his labors. He preached many funerals and married many couples, and was one of the founders of Wilmington College, of which for twenty years he was one of the board of managers. He preached regularly at his own meetings and in early life drew no pay for it, since the Quakers believed that the Gospel ought to be free.
Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright were the parents of seven children: Lindley Murray died at the age of five years and four months; Henry C., who is deceased, was a dealer in vehicles in Hillsboro, Ohio; Eleanor C., who is better known as Ellen, is the subject of this sketch; David S. lives at Cedar Falls, Iowa, where for forty years he has been a teacher of mathematics in the Iowa State Teachers College; Jonathan B. lives in Wilmington, and for twenty years taught in Wilmington College, and later for several years in the Wilmington high school; Elwood, who is deceased, was a farmer and owned a saw-mill; Emma married Alfred Hale, who died in November, 1914, and who was a farmer by occupation; his widow, Mrs. Emma Hale, lives with Miss Wright in her house on Fife avenue, which Miss Wright built in 1894.
Miss Ellen Wright attended the public schools of Highland county, Ohio, and later Earlham College at Richmond, Indiana, which is a well-known educational institution maintained by the Friends church. Subsequently, she entered Wilmington College, which had just been opened, and four years later was graduated with the first class. During 1887 and 1888 she was a student at Bryn Mawr College.
After Miss Wright's graduation from Wilmington College she began teaching in the college and has taught there ever since, a period of forty years. As heretofore noted, she occupied the chair of Latin, and is now the librarian of the college.
An ardent and faithful member of the Friends church, Miss Wright is also one of the most successful teachers who has ever figured in the educational life of Clinton county, and especially in the educational life of Wilmington College. Her good work during a period of almost half a century can scarcefully be overestimated, yet there are scattered over this country thousands of young men and women who would gladly add their blessing to the beloved spirit which guided them in their younger days. Long popular with the faculty and the students, "Teacher Ellen," from standpoint of effective and useful service, is unsurpassed by any other person living in this county.
===========
Obituary clipping from Clinton County, Ohio, historical society, w/ handwritten date of Jan (8 or 9?), 1937:
"Teacher Ellen" Wright
Expires At Age Of 91
Lingering Illess Fatal To
Beloved Resident of City
Friday at 7:15 a.m.
TAUGHT AT W. C. 45 YEARS
Funeral Services To Be Held
In Friends Church Sunday
At 2 P.M.
Miss Ellen C. Wright, "Teacher Ellen" to the thousands of Wilmington College graduates and former students and one of Wilmington's most beloved residents, died of infirmities and complications at her residence, 235 Fife Avenue, Friday at 7:15 A. M. She was 91 years old.
In failing health for more than three years, Miss Wright became bedfast three weeks ago and relatives were in constant attendance at her bedside. Her condition became critical two days ago.
Despite her decline in health, she never lost her keen interest in people, whether they were close friends or acquaintances of many years ago during her days at Wilmington College. Until recently she kept a diary of the events in the lives of those who attended her classes and she was an avid reader of the daily newspapers.
On W. C. Faculty 45 Years
Miss Wright served on the faculty of Wilmington College as professor of Latin from 1875 to 1920, with the exception of one year, 1888-89, when she obtained a leave of absence to do graduate work at Bryn Mawr. She was one of four members of the first graduating class of the college and received her A.B. degree in 1875. The other members were Aaron J. Hunt, Mrs. Elma Doster Cook and Mrs. Anna Lewis Smith. After 45 years of service on the faculty she retired and the Board of Trustees appointed her professor of Latin emeritus.
During her tenure at the college, she became known as "Teacher Ellen" and was one of the most beloved of instructors. Graduates and former students who left Wilmington after their college days and returned in later years invariably went to visit her in her home. After her retirement from the faculty she always retained her interest in college activities and the affairs of its organizations.
Honored On Birthday
On her 91st birthday, which she spent quietly at her home, she received hundreds of greetings from her former students. Many called to pay their respects.
Miss Wright, the daughter of Joseph and Lydia Wright, was born in Penn Township, Highland County, November 9, 1846. She was educated in Highland County schools and later became a teacher there. She was a birthright member of Wilmington Friends Church. She was active in affairs of the church while her health permitted. She also was interested in the work of the Y. W. C. A. while at the college.
Miss Wright is survived by one sister, Mrs. Emma Wright Hale, with whom she made her home, a niece, Mrs. Daisy Rannells of this city, and the following nephews, Probate Judge Hugh J. Wright, G. C. Wright, New Vienna; Harry A. Wright, Highland, and Benson F. Wright, of Springfield, who were at her bedside during her critical illness.
Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. A. Ward Applegate, pastor of the Friends Church, in the church Sunday at 2 P. M. Interment will be in New Vienna cemetery.
The body will lie in state in the church from 1 to 2 P. M. Sunday.
Friends may call at the residence Saturday from 2 to 9 P. M.
Members of the college family and board of trustees will be pallbearers.
=================
See the link below to the memorial for her father, Joseph Wright for "Joseph Wright's Recollections as taken down by his daughter, Ellen C. Wright, New Vienna, [Ohio,] 11, 29, 1891."
==============================
An obituary in THE AMERICAN FRIEND, February 4, 1937, p. 62:
ELLEN C. WRIGHT
Ellen C. Wright, affectionately called "Teacher Ellen" by the thousands of Wilmington College graduates and former students, and one of Wilmington's most beloved, residents, died January 8, at her home in Wilmington, Ohio, at the age of ninety-one years.
Despite her general decline in health, she never lost her keen interest in people, whether they were close friends or acquaintances of made many years ago during her days at Wilmington College. Until recently she kept a diary of the events in the lives of those who attended her classes, and she eagerly awaited the daily newspapers.
Ellen Wright was one of four members of the first graduating class of Wilmington College, receiving her A.B. degree in 1875. She served on the Faculty of Wilmington College for forty-five years, from 1875 to 1920, as Professor of Latin, with the exception of one year, 1888-1889, when she obtained a leave of absence to take graduate work at Bryn Mawr. She was Librarian for some years and taught preparatory English. When she retired from the Faculty, the Board of Trustees appointed her Professor of Latin Emeritus.
She was born in Highland County, November 9, 1846, a member of an old family, widely known in numerous other Friends communities as well as in her home neighborhood. Her father, Joseph Wright, was a prominent Friends minister and her brother, Jonathan Wright, was widely known in educational circles and was a faculty member in the Science Department of Wilmington College.
She was a member of the Wilmington Meeting, and was active in the affairs of the church while her health permitted. Her sister, Emma Wright Hale, with whom she lived, is the only immediate surviving relative. Several nephews and nieces remain.
Largely attended funeral services were held at the Wilmington Friends Church, A. Ward Applegate officiating. Eight persons spoke of her love and the influence she exerted on their lives and paid tribute to her sterling attributes. Interment was in New Vienna cemetery. Members of the Wilmington College Board of Trustees and Faculty served as active and honorary pall bearers.
A tree seeding of the Logan Elm stands on the College Campus, planted and dedicated to her by a member of the Federated Women's Clubs of America. A memorial service was held in the College Chapel when faculty members paid her honor.
=================
From an unknown publication, no page number, beneath a photo of her:
TEACHER ELLEN C. WRIGHT
1846-1937
The passing of Teacher Ellen C. Wright on January 8, at the age of 91 years, was a sorrowful event in the history of Wilmington College, for from the very date of its founding her life was inseparably bound up in that of the institution which she loved and served so well. In the College Yearbook of 1907, which was dedicated to her, we read these words: "If the history of Wilmington College be compared to a book, Miss Wright is the binding; if to a tapestry, Miss Wright is the warp; if to a painting, Miss Wright is the background."
Teacher Ellen was a member of the first graduating class of Wilmington College, receiving her A. B. degree in 1875. She at once became a member of the Faculty; and, with the exception of one year spent in graduate study at Bryn Mawr, she devoted the following 45 years of her life to teaching in Wilmington College. During this period she served as Professor of Latin, Librarian, and Secretary of the Faculty, and was actively engaged in promoting the work of various Literary Clubs and Christian Associations. She had the honor of selecting the College colors, Green and White, and for many year every diploma issued by the College was tied by her own hands. In 1920, the Board of Trustees conferred upon her the title of Professor of Latin Emeritus, and she retired from active duties. In these later years her interest in all person and things connected with the College were as keen as ever before and she was a frequent visitor at various college functions until her failing health made this impossible.
Today the memory of her serene face and beautiful life is deeply engraved upon the minds of the thousands of Wilmington College alumni and students who sat in her classroom as well as those who in any way came under her kindly influence.
===================
From HISTORY OF CLINTON COUNTY, OHIO, by Albert J. Brown [Indianapolis, B.F. Bowen & Co., Inc., 1915], pp. 480-481:
MISS ELLEN C. WRIGHT.
Descended on both the maternal and paternal sides from men and women who have been prominent in the history of this country, and especially in the history of the Friends church ever since the coming of William Penn to America, Miss Ellen C. Wright is a graduate of the first class which finished at Wilmington College, in 1875, and for forty years has been a teacher in Wilmington College. During this period she held the chair of Latin in this institution, and is now the librarian of the college. An ardent Friend, she is also a wonderful teacher, and is widely known as "Teacher Ellen." On her maternal side she is descended from Ellen Cowgill, a widow, who, with five children, was a passenger on the good ship "Welcome," which in 1682 brought William Penn to America. Ellen Cowgill was the great-great-great-great-grandmother of Miss Ellen C. Wright, her maternal grandfather, Henry Cowgill, having been the son of Henry II, who was the son of Henry I, who was the son of John, who was the son of the aforesaid Ellen Cowgill.
Miss Wright's father and mother were Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright, and on her paternal side she is also descended from substantial Quaker ancestry. Her father was born on November 24, 1812, and died on November 2, 1907. Her mother was born in Highland county, Ohio, on December 24, 1815, and died on February 10, 1892. Joseph Wright was the son of John and Hannah (Gilbert) Wright, the former of whom was born in Bedford county, Virginia, and who was the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Wright, who moved from Bedford county, Virginia, to Columbiana county, Ohio. The father of Joseph Wright, Sr., was a large slave owner, but remarked that Joseph had gone to Ohio and joined the Quakers and "would not want my property," so Joseph, Sr., got none from his will. Hannah (Gilbert) Wright, who was born in Louden [sic] county, Virginia, was the daughter of Joseph and Ann Gilbert, who removed from Louden [sic] county, Virginia, to Columbiana county, Ohio, after Hannah was grown. John and Hannah (Gilbert) Wright were farmers and early settlers in Highland county, Ohio. John died about 1821, and after his death his widow married Samuel Coffin, both of whom lived to a good old age.
Henry and Eleanor (Barrett) Cowgill, who were the parents of Miss Wright's mother, were both natives of Virginia, and married in 1794 in Franklin county. After their marriage they removed to Culpeper county, Virginia, and lived on a farm for thirteen years, after which they removed to Paint township, Highland county, Ohio. Miss Wright's mother was the youngest of ten children, all of the members of the family having been Friends.
John Wright, the grandfather of our subject, was a well educated and well informed man, who taught school and preached in the Quaker church. He was also a farmer by occupation. Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright were married on July 1, 1841, and celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on July 1, 1891. Joseph Wright was five years of age when his parents removed from Virginia to Highland county, Ohio. [No--they came from Columbiana Co. to Highland Co.]. He received a good education, having attended the Harveysburg high school, after which he taught school eight years in Highland county, Ohio. A farmer later in life, he purcased a farm located near Clear Creek, Ohio, and paid for it gradually. He was a staunch Quaker, and in 1855 was recorded as a minister by the Clear Creek monthly meeting. Later hundred of people were converted as the result of his labors. He preached many funerals and married many couples, and was one of the founders of Wilmington College, of which for twenty years he was one of the board of managers. He preached regularly at his own meetings and in early life drew no pay for it, since the Quakers believed that the Gospel ought to be free.
Joseph and Lydia (Cowgill) Wright were the parents of seven children: Lindley Murray died at the age of five years and four months; Henry C., who is deceased, was a dealer in vehicles in Hillsboro, Ohio; Eleanor C., who is better known as Ellen, is the subject of this sketch; David S. lives at Cedar Falls, Iowa, where for forty years he has been a teacher of mathematics in the Iowa State Teachers College; Jonathan B. lives in Wilmington, and for twenty years taught in Wilmington College, and later for several years in the Wilmington high school; Elwood, who is deceased, was a farmer and owned a saw-mill; Emma married Alfred Hale, who died in November, 1914, and who was a farmer by occupation; his widow, Mrs. Emma Hale, lives with Miss Wright in her house on Fife avenue, which Miss Wright built in 1894.
Miss Ellen Wright attended the public schools of Highland county, Ohio, and later Earlham College at Richmond, Indiana, which is a well-known educational institution maintained by the Friends church. Subsequently, she entered Wilmington College, which had just been opened, and four years later was graduated with the first class. During 1887 and 1888 she was a student at Bryn Mawr College.
After Miss Wright's graduation from Wilmington College she began teaching in the college and has taught there ever since, a period of forty years. As heretofore noted, she occupied the chair of Latin, and is now the librarian of the college.
An ardent and faithful member of the Friends church, Miss Wright is also one of the most successful teachers who has ever figured in the educational life of Clinton county, and especially in the educational life of Wilmington College. Her good work during a period of almost half a century can scarcefully be overestimated, yet there are scattered over this country thousands of young men and women who would gladly add their blessing to the beloved spirit which guided them in their younger days. Long popular with the faculty and the students, "Teacher Ellen," from standpoint of effective and useful service, is unsurpassed by any other person living in this county.
===========
Obituary clipping from Clinton County, Ohio, historical society, w/ handwritten date of Jan (8 or 9?), 1937:
"Teacher Ellen" Wright
Expires At Age Of 91
Lingering Illess Fatal To
Beloved Resident of City
Friday at 7:15 a.m.
TAUGHT AT W. C. 45 YEARS
Funeral Services To Be Held
In Friends Church Sunday
At 2 P.M.
Miss Ellen C. Wright, "Teacher Ellen" to the thousands of Wilmington College graduates and former students and one of Wilmington's most beloved residents, died of infirmities and complications at her residence, 235 Fife Avenue, Friday at 7:15 A. M. She was 91 years old.
In failing health for more than three years, Miss Wright became bedfast three weeks ago and relatives were in constant attendance at her bedside. Her condition became critical two days ago.
Despite her decline in health, she never lost her keen interest in people, whether they were close friends or acquaintances of many years ago during her days at Wilmington College. Until recently she kept a diary of the events in the lives of those who attended her classes and she was an avid reader of the daily newspapers.
On W. C. Faculty 45 Years
Miss Wright served on the faculty of Wilmington College as professor of Latin from 1875 to 1920, with the exception of one year, 1888-89, when she obtained a leave of absence to do graduate work at Bryn Mawr. She was one of four members of the first graduating class of the college and received her A.B. degree in 1875. The other members were Aaron J. Hunt, Mrs. Elma Doster Cook and Mrs. Anna Lewis Smith. After 45 years of service on the faculty she retired and the Board of Trustees appointed her professor of Latin emeritus.
During her tenure at the college, she became known as "Teacher Ellen" and was one of the most beloved of instructors. Graduates and former students who left Wilmington after their college days and returned in later years invariably went to visit her in her home. After her retirement from the faculty she always retained her interest in college activities and the affairs of its organizations.
Honored On Birthday
On her 91st birthday, which she spent quietly at her home, she received hundreds of greetings from her former students. Many called to pay their respects.
Miss Wright, the daughter of Joseph and Lydia Wright, was born in Penn Township, Highland County, November 9, 1846. She was educated in Highland County schools and later became a teacher there. She was a birthright member of Wilmington Friends Church. She was active in affairs of the church while her health permitted. She also was interested in the work of the Y. W. C. A. while at the college.
Miss Wright is survived by one sister, Mrs. Emma Wright Hale, with whom she made her home, a niece, Mrs. Daisy Rannells of this city, and the following nephews, Probate Judge Hugh J. Wright, G. C. Wright, New Vienna; Harry A. Wright, Highland, and Benson F. Wright, of Springfield, who were at her bedside during her critical illness.
Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. A. Ward Applegate, pastor of the Friends Church, in the church Sunday at 2 P. M. Interment will be in New Vienna cemetery.
The body will lie in state in the church from 1 to 2 P. M. Sunday.
Friends may call at the residence Saturday from 2 to 9 P. M.
Members of the college family and board of trustees will be pallbearers.
=================
See the link below to the memorial for her father, Joseph Wright for "Joseph Wright's Recollections as taken down by his daughter, Ellen C. Wright, New Vienna, [Ohio,] 11, 29, 1891."
