Priscilla Wakefield
Person Female Born 31/1/1751 Died 12/9/1832
Born Priscilla Bell in Tottenham. Quaker philanthropist and author of feminist economics, scientific subjects, travel, children's non-fiction. Best known book was 'The Juvenile Travellers' which had 19 editions, 1801-50. Actively involved in the abolition of slavery and prison reform.
She (co-)founded the Lying-in Charity for Women; the School for Industry, for girls, built almost opposite what is now Bruce Grove Station. Coming from a banking family she was an early promoter of savings banks for those on low incomes, a Penny Savings Bank.
Married Edward Wakefield (1750-1826), a merchant, in 1771. Aunt to Elizabeth Fry. Died Ipswich.
Most of our information from Tottenham Quakers.
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