1863

Miss Lizzie Thomas

Ellicottsville Canandagua Co

NY 27 years old

wishes to become pupil

rather late Miss Lizzie

Jan 1st 1863

Mr. Vassar, Respected Sir.

A few days ago, while reading the Advocate and Guardian, my eyes rested upon the words A New Female College. I was very much interested while reading of Mr Vassars benevolent purposes in making such a disposition of his princely fortunes. It struck me very forcibly that perhaps there is the place where I may acquire the education I have too long neglected. I have thought a great deal about it of late, and whether or not it would be of any use for me- a poor girl- to try to get there. Last night I learned

since so many of the noble educated young men of our country have been slain in this dreadful war (and we fear the fate of thousands more) I have felt surely that a greater responsibility rests upon woman, for the young and rising generation must be supplied with efficient teachers.

I have had considerable experience in teaching district schools and perhaps might always work in the same sphere, but I am not satisfied with this. Now the thing that I worst hate to tell is, that my father is a poor man, and not able to help me. I have a little that I have laid up, but not enough to pay my board a year, to say nothing about tuition and books. But I have my hands, and head, and if there is any way that I could use them to help pay my board for a year in the Poughkeepsie Female College, I should be oh so glad. If you think this worth answering, please answer and direct to

Miss Lizzie Thomas

Ellicottville, Cattaranga Co. N.Y.