John W. Dickinson

John Woodbridge Dickinson (October 12, 1825 – February 16, 1901) was an American educator who was principal of the Westfield Normal School from 1856 to 1877 and secretary of the Massachusetts Board of Education from 1877 to 1893.

Early life Dickinson was born on October 12, 1825. He was one of nine children born to farmer William Dickinson and was a lineal descendant of Nathaniel Dickinson. He was named after Rev. John Woodbridge, a relative by marriage. Dickinson was born in Chester, Massachusetts, but spent most of his youth in Williamstown, Massachusetts. He also served as state librarian as party of his role as secretary of the board of education.

Dickinson was a member of the Williams College board of trustees from 1886 to 1890 and the Newton, Massachusetts school committee from 1888 to 1893. He died there on February 16, 1901.