Annie E. Ridley

Annie E. Ridley (1839–1923) was a British Victorian era novelist who wrote books regarding women's education and a science book for children. Not only was Ridley an author, but she was the governor of the Camden School for Girls in London for twenty-four years. She was successful enough to own her own house. Ridley was also involved with the Headmistresses' Association and the Teacher's Guild. Ridley worked with Frances Mary Buss, a pioneer of women's education, and Ridley went on to inspire people like Ellice Hopkins.

Life

Annie E. Ridley was born on 2 May 1839 in Houghton Le Spring, Durham, England, to John Ridley (1806–1887) and Mary White Pybus (1807–1884). At her birth, she had an older sister Mary Elizabeth Ridley who was born in 1836. When Annie was three months old her family moved to Hindmarsh, South Australia, Australia. Her father wanted to help colonize Australia and help make a great settlement. After a six-month voyage on the boat called the Warrior, the Ridley family arrived at Port Adelaide in Australia. From there they proceeded a few miles to Hindmarsh where they lived in a mud house while a wooden one was being constructed. Soon their new home was built with a fireplace, kitchen, dining room, bedrooms, and an office. However, three tragic events occurred. First, the oldest daughter, Mary Elizabeth, went too close to the fireplace and her clothes caught on fire. She died hours later from the severe Burns. Next, Mrs. Ridley gave birth to another daughter in 1843 (also named Mary Elizabeth) but that daughter died months later. Lastly, a son was born and he died soon after. This causes Annie to grow up without many Children her age.