Collection on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Women's Laboratory

ArchivalResource

Collection on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Women's Laboratory

Collection on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Women's Laboratory

1873-1922

https://archivesspace.mit.edu/repositories/2/resources/254

Ellen Swallow Richards, the first woman awarded a degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), with the generous cooperation of the Women's Education Association of Boston which purchased microscopes and other apparatus, worked to establish a laboratory for women to study chemical analysis, mineralogy, and chemistry in space provided by MIT. According to the October 1876 announcement, "The courses are intended for such as may be able to devote their whole time to the work, as well as those who, by reason of other engagements, can spend only a few hours a week in the laboratories." Fees for an eight-month term were $200 for attendance six days per week, $80 for two days per week, and $45 for one day per week. The Women's Laboratory formally opened in November 1876 with Professor John M. Ordway in charge, assisted by Ellen Richards. The laboratory began with 23 students, many of whom were public school teachers. During its seven years of operation the laboratory served more than 500 women students. The Women's Laboratory closed in 1883 when MIT opened a building containing new laboratory space and all chemistry instruction was integrated into the regular curriculum. The collection consists of correspondence, reports, and writings concerning the formation, funding, and operation of the Women's Laboratory; annual and summary reports; and reports of accomplishments and activities of graduates. The principal correspondent is Ellen Swallow Richards; other correspondents include Francis Amasa Walker, president of MIT, and Susan Minns, class of 1881.

0.3 cubic feet; (1 manuscript box)

eng, Latn

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Libraries