Morris, Margaretta Hare, 1797-1867

Margaretta Hare Morris was a pioneering figure, thought to be the earliest practicing woman entomologist. Born in Philadelphia, she received no formal secondary education, but studied insects, notably the life cycle of the Hessian fly and the seventeen-year locust, publishing important studies of her findings. She became a respected entomologist, writing numerous papers which were delivered by male colleagues at conferences. In the 1850s, she became the second woman (and first who was a practicing naturalist) to join the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.