Elizabeth Fry Ashmead Schaeffer

Elizabeth Fry Ashmead Schaeffer (E.F.A. Schaeffer) (February 16, 1812 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – November 2, 1892 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), was the founder of the Lutheran Home at Germantown for Orphans and an active leader of many ministries of the Lutheran Church in Philadelphia. She was the wife of Rev. Charles William Schaeffer and mother of four children.

Early history Elizabeth was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 16, 1812, in the Germantown area. Her parents were James Ashmead and Eve Frey (Fry). Elizabeth was baptized at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Germantown on May 18, 1812. She had five older siblings, (John, William, Anna, James and Charles) and two younger siblings (Catherine and George). Elizabeth and George (born in 1818) would grow up to be very close friends and business partners.

Elizabeth was confirmed at St. Michael's in 1825 by Rev. John C. Baker. In 1826, her mother Eve, died at the age of fifty-three.

Opening and Leadership The Home opened on March 12, 1859, and it was clear that at first the Home was managed by women under the leadership of Elizabeth. She had the chief administrative role as director and treasurer. Other women helped to manage the home around her and would meet with her weekly to sew and help with other needs for the children.