Emily Bissell

Emily Bissell was a Delaware-born children's rights activist and social worker who dedicated her life to improving the lives of children in need. She is renowned for introducing Christmas Seals to the United States Postal Service and the American public, which helped raise funds for the fight against tuberculosis.

Born on May 31, 1861, in Wilmington, Delaware, Emily was the daughter of a prominent lawyer and judge. She attended private schools in Wilmington and later graduated from Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania. After college, she worked as a social worker in Philadelphia, where she became involved in the fight against tuberculosis, which was a major public health issue at the time.

In 1907, Emily came up with the idea of using Christmas Seals to raise funds for the fight against tuberculosis. She designed the first Christmas Seal and convinced the postmaster general to allow them to be sold through the United States Postal Service. The campaign was a huge success and helped raise millions of dollars for the fight against tuberculosis.

Despite her activism on behalf of children, Emily allied herself with the anti-suffragists, believing that voting rights should remain exclusively with men. This was a controversial stance, but it did not diminish her dedication to improving the lives of children.

Emily faced many challenges and difficulties in her life, but she remained steadfast in her commitment to helping others. She was known for her kind and compassionate personality, as well as her strong work ethic and determination. Her motivation came from her belief that every child deserved a chance to succeed and that it was her duty to help make that happen.

Emily was married to fellow social worker, William Bissell, and the couple had two children together. She also established the city's inaugural public kindergarten, which was a testament to her commitment to education and children's rights.

Emily was associated with many other activists and social workers of her time, including her friend and colleague, Lillian Wald. Together, they worked to improve the lives of children and families in need, and their legacy continues to inspire others to this day.

In conclusion, Emily Bissell was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to improving the lives of children in need. Her contributions to the fight against tuberculosis and her advocacy for children's rights have had a lasting impact on society. She will always be remembered as a trailblazer and a champion for those who needed it most.