Molloy, Emma, 1839-1907

Emma Barrett Molloy (b. Emily F. Barett, July 17, 1839, South Bend, IN–d. May 14, 1907, Ceadarville, CA) became a school teacher in her teens before beginning a career in journalism. She was married to Louis A. Pradt, an alcoholic, from 1858-1864. They had two children who died in infancy. Returning to South Bend in November, 1867, Emma married Edward Molloy, editor of the South Bend National Union, and she became a reporter and co-editor. At this time, Emma also began her involvement in the women’s suffrage and temperance movements. She wrote articles for the suffragist journals. After a short stint at the Cortland (NY) Weekly Journal, the Molloys started the Elkhart (IN) Observer. Emma continued to lecture on suffrage and prohibition. The couple divorced in 1882 after having a son, daughter, and three foster daughters.

Emma became increasingly active in the Women's Christian Temperance Union and the Methodist Church while continuing to write for newspapers until 1885. While living in Washington, KS, Emma and her daughter, Cora Lee, were put on trial for the murder of George Graham's wife. George Graham, who worked with Emma and married Cora Lee, was later convicted of murder of his first wife, Sarah. Emma's reputation never recovered and she moved with her daughter, De'Etta, to Port Townsend, Washington. She married Morris Barrett in 1889 and continued her work for the WCTU and Methodist Church.