Welcome to Frances Willard's Evanston

Evanston's Most Famous Willard

As descendants and relatives gathering for the Willard Family Reunion, we're celebrating more than a family name. We're gathering in the community that became home to one of the most influential members of the Willard family:
Frances Elizabeth Willard.

Today, Frances is often remembered locally in Evanston, but in the late nineteenth century her reputation extended across the United States and around the world.

Born in 1839, Frances moved to Evanston with her family in 1858, when the town was still young and growing along the shores of Lake Michigan. What began as a family home became the launching point for a remarkable life of leadership, advocacy, education, and social change.

A Curious and Adventurous Spirit

Family stories describe Frances as an energetic and adventurous child who preferred riding horses, climbing trees, and exploring outdoors. Her family even nicknamed her "Frank" because she was rarely interested in staying within the expectations placed on girls of her era. That independent streak stayed with her throughout her life.

An Evanston Trailblazer

Frances attended school in Evanston and became part of the first generation of women to pursue higher education in the area. She later joined the faculty of Northwestern University and became its first Dean of Women—a groundbreaking role at a time when few women held positions of leadership in higher education.

She believed deeply in education and in expanding opportunities for women to learn, lead, and participate fully in public life.

The House That Became a Landmark

The home where Frances lived with her family still stands in Evanston today. The Frances Willard House has been preserved as a museum and National Historic Landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the life, work, and legacy of a woman whose influence reached far beyond the North Shore.

As reunion attendees, we'llgather in the very community where Frances lived, worked, wrote, welcomed guests, and built a movement that shaped history.

A Family Connection to Place

The story of Frances Willard is also the story of Evanston. Her years here coincided with the growth of the city, the expansion of Northwestern University, and the emergence of new opportunities for women in public life.

While each branch of the Willard family has its own story, this reunion offers a chance to connect with a shared history rooted in this place. Whether you're visiting Evanston for the first time or returning, we hope you'll enjoy exploring the streets, lakefront, and landmarks that Frances once knew.