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Mary Freeman HoveyAccording to a Hovey Family genealogy book, Mary Freeman Hovey was born at Crawfordsville, Indiana on January 28, 1838 and died there on June 4, 1897. She was the daughter of Edmund Otis Hovey and Mary Carter. She was educated by private tutors, then attended the Ohio Female College at Cincinnati. According to a history of Kansas State University by James C. Carey, Miss Hovey taught German and literature classes in the newly established Agricultural College at Manhattan Kansas for three years, from 1869 to 1872. While employed at the Agricultural College, she must have boarded at least part of the time with the Griffing family. She resigned her position on the faculty in the spring of 1872 when the Board of Regents announced their intentions to shift the emphasis in the college curriculum from classical studies to agricultural and mechanical arts. Upon her return to Crawfordsville, she opened a school for young ladies. After her father died in 1877, she and her mother resided for a time with her brother in New Haven where she taught in the public schools. By 1880, however, she and her mother had returned to Crawfordsville where she resumed her school for young ladies. Her father is credited for having played a pivotal role in the establishment of Wabash College in Indiana. Crawfordsville, Indiana Mrs. Griffing, my dear friend, A day or two ago, at our table, I told some friends of your kindness to me while I was in Kansas and how you would run a race to see if you could not get supper ready before I should finish the German recitation. When the mail was brought in that day, a letter came from Prof. Hougham telling [of the] affliction which has fallen on [your husband] Mr. Griffing and, through him, upon you all. “There is no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.” I know that you have long since learned the way to the mercy seat and that the Holy Spirit is your comforter. Your boys must be men by this time and I know they and your daughter will do all they can to lighten your burden. I shall be anxious to learn of Mr. Griffing’s health and how all your children are. My mother and I live quietly together here at our old home. I have a pleasant school of over twenty girls. This keeps me busy and as my schoolroom is in our own house, I can relieve my mother of much of the housekeeping. Remember us to our friends that are near you. I learn that Mrs. Hougham is a very great sufferer. Let me hear from you soon. Affectionately yours, |
