Catherine Fiske

Catherine Fiske (July 30, 1784 – May 20, 1837) was an American teacher and principal who founded a girls' boarding school, Miss Catherine Fiske's Young Ladies Seminary. Located in Keene, New Hampshire, it was in operation from 1814 until the 1840s. Presently, the seminary's building serves as President's House, Keene State College. Fiske was also a benefactor for the New Hampshire State Hospital.

Early life and education Catherine (or Catharine) Fiske was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, July 30, 1784. Her father died after she was born so her education depended on her mother. Her mother married a second husband and they lived for a time in rural Vermont. She was uncommonly attached to books, and read a great many hours and days when other children were at play. When she did not understand the author, someone had to explain it to her satisfaction, or she could not very willingly lay her book aside; and, when once made to understand, it was never forgotten. and taught in various places, in New Hampshire and Vermont, especially at Athol, Massachusetts, Phillipsburg, and Keene. At the latter place, she became, at length a permanent teacher; but not till she had become very much distinguished for her skill and good management, in the common schools of more rural country places. She began teaching in the town, but did not open Fiske's Young Ladies Seminary until May 1814. She purchased a building with a large farm, later known as the "Thayer" property. The school received both boarding and day scholars. At one time, a class of boys was also admitted as day scholars.

In God's Acre, on Washington Street, a monument was erected to her memory, with the following epitaph: "Catherine Fiske, Founder and Principal of the Female Seminary in Kenne, N. H., and for thirty-eight years a teacher of youth, died May 20, 1837, aged 53."