Maria Purdy Peck

Maria Purdy Peck ( Purdy; 1840–1914) was American essayist, social economist, and civic leader from New York. Moving to Iowa after her marriage, she became involved with nearly all of the educational, philanthropic, and club work in the state.

Early life and education Maria Purdy was born on November 16, 1840, in West Butler, New York. Her father was Merritt Purdy, of Western New York, who was of Dutch origin. Both his father and mother belonged to the well known Dutch families of Albany, New York. Her mother was Amanda Sears Purdy. Both Merritt and Amanda came of Revolutionary ancestors. the motto was the thought and inspiration of Peck: "Where there is no vision, the people perish."

She was vice-president-at-large of the International Council of Women and was a prominent member of the International Congress of Women held in London in 1899. She read a paper before this council, which was the largest organized body of women in the world. At this conference, she was invited to a seat on the platform by Lady Henry Somerset, and she had the honor of being the guest of Queen Victoria at a garden party. she was State regent of the Iowa DAR, and was honored at the State and Continental Congresses.

Selected works

Fort Armstrong, 1893