Who Was Elizabeth Fry?
Elizabeth Fry was an English woman, born in 1780 into a wealthy Quaker family. In 1812, she began visiting women imprisoned in London's infamous Newgate Prison. Appalled by the squalid conditions of poor and illiterate women incarcerated with their children, Elizabeth Fry began services such as a school for the children, and work projects so the women could earn money for their release. She also advocated with government and the public for female guards and better conditions. Her persistence and compassion led to real change for women in prison.
Books:
Elizabeth Fry by Janet Whitney
Elizabeth Fry by John Kent
Elizabeth Fry by Eunice M. Smillie (E. Fry Library only)