Lois E. Trott

Lois E. Trott (née Andrews; January 4, 1828 – October 4, 1894) was an American educator and philanthropist born near Oswego, New York. Known for her innovative teaching methods and dedication to improving the lives of impoverished children, she made significant contributions to education and social welfare. She was notably involved with the Five Points House of Industry and the Children's Aid Society, and later became active in the Woman's Christian Temperance Union.

Biography

Early life and education Lois E. Andrews was born near Oswego, New York. Her father was a pioneer farmer who lived far from schools, which made accessing education challenging. At the age of three, Lois began attending a school two miles away. By the age of fifteen, she started her career as a teacher, earning a reputation for introducing new educational methods. In 1851, she became a pupil at the State Normal School of Albany. She left her studies to teach in Oswego.

Children's Aid Society After several years in home missionary work, Lois married Eli Trott, who worked in the same field. The couple dedicated their efforts to the Children's Aid Society. Lois Trott took charge of the first lodging-house for homeless girls in America, located at 205 New Canal Street. This institution aimed to provide a decent bed and a satisfactory meal for girls who were either unsuccessful in finding work or were street vendors.

The lodging-house, under Lois Trott's supervision, became a refuge for many young girls. It was designed to be self-supporting by charging a nominal fee to the lodgers, which helped the girls develop a sense of responsibility and avoid a mindset of dependency. The facility also provided education in practical skills. Girls were taught sewing and housekeeping under Mrs. Trott's guidance, forming an evening circle of sewers.