A Progressive Era Activist: Educator Josephine Ahnefeldt Goss

by Marcella Beck

Josephine Ahnefeldt Goss impacted the lives of many: from young lumberjacks to girls learning to cook and from children bundled up in a classroom to soldiers going off to war. Her work as an educator, politician, inventor and suffragist spanned a lifetime of public service.

Josephine Ahnefeldt Goss

Born in 1859, she came to Grand Rapids in 1887 to take the position of principal at the Jefferson Street School. Her work on the Grand Rapids Board of Education helped to guide the city’s public schools through the turbulent years of 1897 to 1907. As principal of Sigsbee School from 1911 to 1931, she instituted innovative educational programs which continued to shape curriculum and facilities for the next half century.

In her “spare time,” she raised two children, presided over the Ladies Literary Club, patented an invention, promoted public libraries and fought for woman’s suffrage. Although her story is unique, she also represents the scores of dynamic women who were inspired by the progressive ideals of the late 19th and early 20th century to move this country forward by bringing opportunity to all.

About the Author Marcella Beck

Historian and educator Marcella Beck has given numerous talks and has published in the Grand River Valley Review. Among her many volunteer activities, she works with the Grand Rapids Public Library and Museum and is president of the Board of Trustees at Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Thursday, March 14, 2013, 7 pm Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum Presented by Marcella Beck, Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council by Marcella Beck.