Beginnings

Grace Bagley’s abiding interest in the lives of women and children was inspired by the work of Jane Addams (1860-1935) at Hull House. Founded in 1889, this pioneering settlement house—the first in the nation—became the center of community activities on Chicago’s West Side, a neighborhood with a tumultuous array of new immigrants. With classes teaching English, parenting skills, craft skills, art and music, Hull House was of great interest to Grace. She was especially interested in the role of children in the Americanization of their parents and the mistreatment of children in the City’s prison system. It was through her work with Addams that Grace decided to take on the management of the tenement house owned by her husband Frederick.

Early in her marriage Grace heard pacifist, suffragist and fellow Unitarian, Julia Ward Howe give a speech. Howe’s words deeply influenced Grace’s dedication to social reform.

By 1894, Grace had joined the Chicago Woman’s Club, a rapidly-growing organization of influential Chicago women. Under Grace’s leadership, with help from Addams and other social reformers, like Lucy Flower, the Club became deeply involved in advocating for children’s causes. It was during her work with the Woman’s Club that Grace learned how to directly lobby legislators.