Hattie Bishop Speed

Hattie Bishop Speed (February 12, 1858 – August 8, 1942) was a pianist, humanist, and philanthropist who championed music and the arts in Louisville, Kentucky.

Early life Harriett Theresa Bishop was born on February 12, 1858, in Louisville, Kentucky. Hattie attended Louisville and Boston private schools before going to Europe in 1886. Her music education continued for six years there in Berlin and Rome at the age of 28.

Career Upon returning to Louisville, Ms. Bishop resumed her life as a piano teacher and performer.

Mrs. Speed. was also a fervent advocate of Louisville's American Red Cross Hospital, which had been founded by African-American physicians and operating the only nurse training program in Kentucky open to black women. Hattie Speed served on the hospital's advisory board and helped fund many of the hospital's operations.

Personal life and philanthropy Hattie Bishop married prominent Louisville businessman, James Breckinridge Speed, in 1906. She was 48 and he was 62. His first wife, Cora Coffin Speed, had died the year prior. Traveling extensively throughout the US as well as abroad, the two enjoyed collecting paintings and sculptures.

With James Speed's death in 1912, Hattie established the Speed Art Museum to memorialize of her husband of his love of art. Mrs. Speed served as the first president and director of the art museum.

Death Hattie Speed died on August 8, 1942, in Louisville. She was buried at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville.