Pioneer of the Month- Mary Elizabeth Post

     Mary Elizabeth Post, a native of Elizabethtown, New York, was raised in a family that deeply valued education and literature. Her father, a carpenter with a passion for books, instilled in Mary and her seven siblings the importance of learning and manners. Recognizing his daughter's potential, he arranged for her to receive private education during summers, laying the foundation for Mary's future as an educator. At just 15 years old, Mary embarked on her teaching career, demonstrating her aptitude and passion for education from a young age.

     Despite facing setbacks and gender barriers in her pursuit of higher education, Mary remained undaunted in her quest for knowledge. After being rejected from the University of Vermont due to her gender, she pursued studies at the Burlington Female Seminary. Graduating from the seminary in 1863, Mary's journey led her to Iowa, where she encountered love and heartbreak. Despite the pain of betrayal, Mary's resilience propelled her forward, leading her to pursue a teaching position in Lansing, Iowa, where she continued to make a difference in the lives of her students.

     In 1872, Mary Elizabeth Post's path took her to Arizona City, later known as Yuma, Arizona, where she left an indelible mark on the community. Embraced by territorial governor Anson P. K. Safford, Mary embarked on a mission to establish education in the frontier town. Overcoming challenges and resistance, she transformed a former saloon into Arizona's third school, earning a reputation as a strict yet dedicated educator. Throughout her illustrious career, Mary's commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as she engaged in creative fundraising efforts and community outreach. Her legacy lives on through the "Mary E. Post School" in Yuma, a testament to her enduring impact on generations of learners.