Emma Gertrude White

Summary

Emma Gertude White was a lifelong educator in Evanston, serving elementary and adult immigrant students. Her education work began in 1896 at Washington Elementary teaching first grade where she realized a large portion of her students came from immigrant families. White was known for her dedication and love for her students and was often seen visiting their home. As she learned about the unique struggles these immigrant families faced, she began creating a curriculum for adults to ease their burdens in their new country. White began her immigration work by teaching English, as the language barrier was a major obstacle for newcomers. Over the years, she expanded her immigration school to include Civics, American History, and Citizenship Test Prep classes to thousands of Evanston newcomers from over twenty-five different countries. White was also an active member of the Fort Dearborn chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. After her death, Washington Elementary hung a portrait of her in the halls of the school to honor her years of service and stood as a testament to the love which the community had for her.

Education: Lanark High School. Academy of Lyons, and University of Chicago

Years in Evanston: 1896-1933

Sources: “Washington School to Mark Golden Anniversary Friday” Evanston Review, June 1, 1950; “Portrait Will Honor Memory of Emma Gertrude White” Evanston Review, March 15 1945; Obituary, Evanston Review, December 25, 1941