Born: 1830 (Madison, Ohio)
Biography:
Rosa Miller Avery was an influential American abolitionist, political reformer, second-generation suffragist, and writer. Born on May 21, 1830, in Madison, Ohio, she grew up in a household that served as a noted underground railroad station. Her childhood experiences greatly shaped her dedication to fighting against the institution of slavery and advocating for women’s rights.
Avery’s lineage was filled with individuals who fought for freedom and justice. Her grandfather, Captain Isaac Miller, fought in the American Revolutionary War and was wounded at the Battle of Bunker Hill. Another relative, General James Miller, served as aide-de-camp to General George Washington. Her father, Nahum Miller, was an early anti-slavery activist, and their family farm was not only known for its cattle and blooded stock but also for its hospitality toward those in need.
From a young age, Avery demonstrated a strong love for animals, which she inherited from her maternal grandfather, James McDonald. Cattle shows and horse fairs fascinated her, and she held Henry Bergh, the founder of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, in high esteem. It was her father, however, who inspired her with his love for children and his belief in broad humanitarianism. He even adopted two additional children, in addition to his five biological ones.
Avery’s education at the Madison Seminary further fueled her passion for social justice. While attending the seminary, she wrote powerful anti-slavery pieces, showcasing her talent as a writer and her commitment to the abolitionist cause. Her writing would become a powerful tool in her future endeavors.
When Avery became an adult and settled in Ashtabula, Ohio, she organized the first anti-slavery society in that region of the United States. Her involvement in the fight against slavery only intensified during the Civil War. With a male pseudonym, she wrote ceaselessly for various newspapers and journals, focusing her efforts on promoting the Union cause and emancipation. These articles, aimed at capturing attention, allowed her to use her writing skills to bolster the abolitionist movement.
Additionally, Avery’s writing extended to women’s suffrage. Many of her articles and responses to opponents of women’s suffrage were published in the Chicago Inter-Ocean. She faced the societal opposition to women’s rights head-on, recognizing that the pursuit of equal rights for women was an essential part of her activism. Avery’s work under the pen name Sue Smith delved into social questions and addressed topics beneficial to young people, displaying her versatility as a writer.
Later in her life, Avery moved to Chicago, where she continued to advocate for social purity and equal suffrage. She contributed significantly to the Chicago press, writing numerous articles on these subjects. Her dedication to social reform and the advancement of women remained steadfast.
Rosa Miller Avery’s efforts as an abolitionist, suffragist, and writer significantly influenced society during a time of great change and upheaval. Her ability to capture attention through her writing, even by adopting male pseudonyms, allowed her to spread her message widely and contribute to important debates of her time. Avery’s work continues to inspire and serve as a testament to the power of individuals to create lasting change.