Public-domain ebook
by Thomas Woody
Language: en4,121 downloads on Project Gutenberg
Subjects
In: History - Other·History - Religious·History - Schools & Universities
Public-domain ebook sourced from Project Gutenberg #72371.
Thomas W. Woody’s dissertation, “Early Quaker Education in Pennsylvania,” is a scholarly study that draws on original manuscripts housed in southeastern Pennsylvania. The author begins by explaining that the surviving records, though unevenly kept, were examined in person, and he acknowledges the assistance of Society of Friends members, the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, and Professor Paul Monroe. From this foundation the work proceeds through a systematic outline, moving from the origins of the Quakers and their doctrinal roots in George Fox, through the organization of meetings, to detailed surveys of schools in Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, Chester, and Delaware counties, and finally to discussions of curriculum, teachers, and the education of African‑American and Native children. The opening chapters set the stage by linking Fox’s “inner‑light” theology to the practical attitudes that shaped early Quaker schooling.
The text reflects the formal, academic tone of an early‑20th‑century Ph.D. thesis, with careful citation of primary sources and a measured, descriptive style. Readers who appreciate meticulous historical research, particularly those interested in religious history, the development of American education, or the social fabric of Pennsylvania’s colonial period, will find Woody’s methodical approach and extensive documentation engaging.
The opening · free to read
The manuscript records which furnish the most direct light on this study are found in various depositories in southeastern Pennsylvania. Those that have been preserved and made accessible to the writer have been examined by him in person. With the exception of a few cases, the minutes of the preparative meetings have not been well kept; hence, that source of information is very limited.
If this work possesses merit, it is by reason of the coöperation of many men and women. I am obligated to the members of the Society of Friends who, as custodians of records, have been instrumental in forwarding the investigation. It is also a great pleasure to acknowledge the friendly encouragement and assistance given by Albert Cook Myers, of The Historical Society of Pennsylvania. I wish also to thank Professor Paul Monroe for the initial encouragement and continued interest during the progress of the investigation.
T. W.
Teachers College, New York July 11, 1917
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