Elizabeth Fry

Elizabeth Fry (May 21, 1780 — October 12, 1845) was an English prison reformer, social reformer and philanthropist. She was the driving force in legislation to make the treatment of prisoners more humane. She was supported in her efforts by a reigning monarch and has been depicted on British currency.

Birth and family background

Fry was born Elizabeth Gurney at Earlham in Norwich, Norfolk, England to a Quaker family. Her father, John Gurney, was a partner in the Gurney Bank. Her mother, Catherine, was a part of the Barclay family, who were among the founders of Barclays Bank. Elizabeth's mother died when she was only twelve years old. As one of the oldest girls in the family, she was partly responsible for the care and training of the younger children, including her brother Joseph John Gurney.

Related Topics:
Earlham - Norwich - Norfolk - England - Quaker - Barclays Bank - Joseph John Gurney

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