Teachers of Tupperville

*Tupperville has a long history of female teachers. Although the first recorded teacher was a man, the second was a Miss Angevine. Following her lead, at least 72 women taught in Tupperville, compared to only 39 men.

 

One notable teacher was Mrs. Margaret Gavel, who taught from 1932-1938. She is best known for her fundraising efforts with the Women's Institute, raising money for a well, new playground equipment, the library cabinet, and more. She also chose to stay an extra hour after school to teach three teenage girls who wished to complete grate 11. At the time, rural schools did not have to offer higher grades. Interested students were supposed to attend high school in Bridgetown, but the three girls could not afford the expenses of boarding or travel.

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Other teachers made an impression on their students as well. A Miss Hockin made healthy lunches for her students, while Miss Black and Miss Chestnut was chastised for "scandalous" behaviour. Over the years, Tupperville School employed countless interesting female teachers, but unfortunately many of their stories have been lost to time.

 

*Adapted from Hillman, Emily. "Female Teachers in One-Room Schoolhouses" The Tupperville School Museum