Mary Titcomb was a girl with determination; she wanted to be a person who made things happen. Born into a poor farm family in New Hampshire, Mary watched as her two brothers went to Phillips Exeter Academy for a good education. She and her sister begged to be allowed to attend school beyond eighth grade. Her parents agreed, and both girls studied at the new Robinson Female Seminary. As her brothers began to choose careers and leave home, Mary looked around for her chance to also accomplish something with her life.
