Martha Jane Ridpath papers

Collection

Identifier: MSD-1879-001

Collection Statement

The collection includes club talks and addresses given by Miss Ridpath; newspaper clippings; letters; and programs for various functions, including the Semi-Centennial reception in honor of Dr. John Clark Ridpath. Also included is "Prelude" by Dent Chaney, a small book of verses, written in memory of Martha J. Ridpath, 1926 and photographs of Miss Ridpath.

Dates

Creation: 1855 - 1926

Creator

Ridpath, Martha Jane (class of 1879) (Person)

Access Restrictions

Collection is open for research.

Usage Restrictions

Biographical Sketch

Martha Jane Ridpath was born on August 6, 1855 in Putnam County, Ind. She was the sister of Dr. John Clark Ridpath, noted historian and former president of the University. Miss Ridpath earned her A.B. from Asbury College (DePauw University) in 1879 and her M.A. in 1882. She taught in the Indiana public school system from 1880 to 1908, when she retired on leave of absence due to illness. Her various positions included: teacher of Bible and Dean of Girls at Greencastle High School; principal at Spencer High School; secretary of Society of Alumni, DePauw University, 1883-89; president of Society of Alumni, DPU, 1889-90 and 1906-08; and permanent secretary of Society of Alumni, DPU from 1910. She kept the alumni records of DePauw University and was said to have been know to more graduates than any other alumna of the time. Miss Ridpath died on May 11, 1926 in Greencastle, Ind. at the age of 70.