Pérola Byington

Pérola Ellis Byington (born Pearl Ellis McIntyre; 3 December 1879 – 6 November 1963) was a Brazilian philanthropist and social activist. She was an advocate for mother and children's health assistance in Brazil during the first half of 20th century.

Early life On 3 December 1879, Byington was born as Pearl Ellis McIntyre in Santa Bárbara d'Oeste, São Paulo, Brazil. She also dedicated herself to several other programs in defense of the disadvantaged, especially children, having been awarded several commendations of merit.

Personal life On 4 July 1901, Byington married Albert Jackson Byington, an electrical engineer who imported the first electric motor to Brazil. They had two children.

On 6 November 1963, Byington died in New York City, New York, United States.

Pérola, a municipality of the state of Paraná, was named after her; Alberto Byington Júnior, Pérola's son, was one of the partners of the Companhia Byington de Colonização Ltda., the company that bought land and settled in the region.

Byington is the great-grandmother of actress Bianca Byington and singer Olivia Byington. She is also the great-great-grandmother of the actor Gregório Duvivier.