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The Abbot Academy
We cannot talk about the success of women authors in Andover without mentioning Abbot Academy.
It was founded in 1829 thanks to the donation of a woman named Sarah Abbot, as one of the earliest prestigious secondary schools for women in the US. When it opened its doors there were debates about whether or not educating women was a good idea. Some people believed that it could allow women to be better homemakers.
Others feared that it could lead women away from being a housewife or even make them infertile. Despite this hesitation, the Academy opened its doors with the mission: "to regulate the tempers, to improve the taste, to discipline and enlarge the minds and form the morals of youth.”
Although met with hesitancy at its reception, Abbot Academy quickly became reputable and an example of what women are capable of given the access to education. Some of its curriculum even surpassed that of the all male Phillips Academy. Much of this success can be attributed to two principles, Philena and Phebe Mckeen.
The sisters implemented a lot of changes at Abbot including; expanding buildings, implementing strict schedules from 6am - 10 pm, introducing foreign language classes, adding women to a previously all male board of trustees, and so much more. Together they ushered in what was considered the "golden age" of Abbot Academy.
They were also writers who published multiple books over their lifetimes. Philena published a book on the history of Abbot Academy and was active in The November Club. Phoebe went the fictional route, publishing books including Theodora, a Home Story.
After 1973 Abbot Academy joined Phillips where it remains today. Our next author was a successful graduate from Abbot Academy who went on to become one of the most popular female writers of her time.
Preserving the pastEducating for the future
Connecting with our community
Preserving the past
Educating for the future
Connecting with our community
Andover Center for History & Culture
97 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
978-475-2236
Andover Center for History & Culture
97 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
978-475-2236
The History Center is funded by individual, foundation, and corporate donations and receives no Town of Andover funding.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
The History Center is funded by individual, foundation, and corporate donations and receives no Town of Andover funding.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
