Abigail Williams May

Abigail (Abby) Williams May (1829–1888) was an American social reformer, suffragist, and advocate for education who made contributions to the advancement of women's rights and educational policy in Massachusetts during the 19th century. She was the first cousin of the author Louisa May Alcott.

Early life and family Born on April 21, 1829, in Boston, Massachusetts, May was the daughter of Deacon Samuel J. May and Mary (Goddard) May. Her parents were supporters of the abolitionist movement and were members of congregations led by the Rev. John Pierpont and Theodore Parker. In her younger years, May traveled to Europe and later dedicated her time to raising a niece who had lost her mother.

During the Civil War, May played an instrumental role in the organization of the Sanitary Commission. She led a group of patriotic women in Boston and Massachusetts in providing support and assistance to soldiers on the battlefield. From 1882 to 1888, she served as a trustee for the Tuskegee Institute, contributing to the growth and success of this historically black college in Alabama. The Abby W. May Elementary School in Roxbury is also named after her.

May died on November 30, 1888, in Boston, Massachusetts, at the age of 59. She is buried at the Forest Hills Cemetery.