July 18, 1847

Harriet E. Bishop arrives in St. Paul to open her public school. She wastes no time, starting school the next day. Although Bishop is usually remembered as Minnesota’s first public school teacher, Matilda Runsey had taught for several months before Bishop’s arrival, and there had been a number of missionary teachers. In addition to teaching for many years, Bishop would write two books, Floral Home and Dakota War Whoop. Harriet Island (formerly Devil’s Island) is named in her honor. She died August 9, 1883. Want to explore this and other events?

Thanks to Juliana James’ 4th Grade Class at Frost Lake Magnet School part of St Paul Public Schools for the research on January’s Day in History.

Thanks also to Minnesota’s Learn and Serve America Service Learning Program for their help.

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