Elizabeth Fry

Date of Birth: May 21, 1780

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: October 12, 1845

Biography

Elizabeth Fry, born Elizabeth Gurney, was a renowned English prison reformer, social reformer, and a member of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). She was born on May 21, 1780, in Norwich, England, and grew up in a wealthy and influential family. Deeply moved by the Quaker belief in the inner light of every individual, she dedicated her life to humanitarian causes, focusing particularly on prison reform. Fry became actively involved in prison reform after visiting Newgate Prison in 1813. Appalled by the conditions there, she began organizing efforts to improve the lives of the inmates, particularly women and children. Her work included setting up a school for the children who were imprisoned with their mothers, providing materials for sewing and knitting to give the women a productive way to spend their time, and advocating for better sanitary conditions and humane treatment. Her efforts gained significant attention, leading to changes in prison regulations and inspiring similar reforms across Europe. Elizabeth Fry’s work also extended to the establishment of soup kitchens and shelters for the homeless. She became a prominent public figure, meeting with royalty and politicians to advocate for social change.

5 Interesting Facts about Elizabeth Fry

1. Elizabeth Fry was the first woman to be depicted on a British banknote, appearing on the £5 note from 2001 to 2016.

2. She founded the “Association for the Improvement of the Female Prisoners in Newgate” in 1817.

3. Fry’s work in prison reform was so influential that she was called to give evidence before a parliamentary committee.

4. She was a close friend and correspondent of the famous social reformer and philanthropist, William Wilberforce.

5. Elizabeth Fry was also involved in the formation of the British Ladies’ Society for Promoting the Reformation of Female Prisoners.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Elizabeth Fry

1. “Punishment is not for revenge, but to lessen crime and reform the criminal.”

2. “It is an honor to be the servant of the poor.”

3. “I hope that every one who sees me will know that I am a Quaker, and will feel that I am a Christian.”

4. “The poor must be treated with respect and compassion.”

5. “Let us not rest until we have done all that can be done to protect the innocent and to reform the guilty.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Elizabeth Fry did not accumulate personal wealth but rather dedicated her resources and influence to her charitable and reform efforts.

Children

Elizabeth Fry had eleven children with her husband, Joseph Fry. Their names were Katherine, Rachel, John, William Storrs, Richenda, Joseph, Elizabeth, Hannah, Louisa, Samuel, and Daniel.