Birth and Family: Born March 19, 1859, in Rockford, Illinois. She was the third of four children.
Family Influence: Her family was influenced by art and feminism. Her father was a supporter of female suffrage and equal education.
Education and Early Career
Schooling: Did not attend college with Jane Addams; had a strong education background.
Teaching Career: Taught literature and art history from 1880-1889.
Hull House
Co-founding: Co-founded Hull House with Jane Addams in 1889 on Chicago's Near West Side.
Community Impact: By 1907, Hull House expanded to a 13-building complex serving mainly immigrants. It included a school, library, post office, and women's residence.
Funding: Some students and Ellen contributed to the financial support of Hull House.
Contributions to the Arts
Art Promotion: Promoted art appreciation through reading clubs, art history classes, and decorating Hull House with art.
Arts and Crafts Movement: Participated in arts and crafts movement; founded Society of Arts in Schools.
Advocacy and Reforms
Child Labor: Fought against child labor in collaboration with Florence Kelley.
Labor Rights: Actively participated in labor strikes, even getting arrested during protests.
Women's and Immigrant Rights: Raised money and joined picket lines to support labor rights.
Legacy and Later Life
Catholic Church: Worked within the Roman Catholic Church later in life; studied Catholic arts.
Legacy: Her contributions to education, arts, and social justice left a lasting impact, commemorated by Ellen Gates Starr Park and the preserved art at Hull House Museum.
Death: Passed away on February 10, 1940.
Significance
Impact on Society: Her work provided better lives for immigrant children and workers, with a strong focus on education and art.
Recognition: Her efforts continue to be recognized and celebrated in Chicago, ensuring her legacy lives on.