Whitton, Charlotte, 1896-1975

Charlotte Whitton was born on 8 March 1896 to John Edward Whitton and Elizabeth Langin in Renfrew, Ontario, Canada. John Whitton worked as a merchant and caterer to lumber companies in northern Canada and spent much of the year away from home. For much of Charlotte's childhood, she lived primarily with her mother, siblings, and paternal grandmother while her father was away. Called Lottie in her childhood, Charlotte was an exceptional student and graduated from Renfrew Collegiate Institute with honors before going on to Queen's University in 1914. Coming from a working class family and, particularly as a woman at that time, the fact that Charlotte went on to college was a remarkable achievement.

At Queen's, Whitton was a leader both academically and socially. She was the first woman appointed as editor of Queen's Journal, the student newspaper, and was also a leading player on the ice hockey team. She accomplished these things while carrying an extensive academic load. Whitton graduated from Queen's University in 1918 with an M.A. in English, History, and Philosophy. She received numerous honorary degrees, including one from Smith College in 1955.

...