1845

Abby Hopper Gibbons, a fervent abolitionist, establishes the female department of the Prison Association.

WPA becomes the first systems-involved women’s rights organization.

“I have seen with my own eyes, and have heard with my own ears, what they are subjected to; and I know of a truth there are abuses and outrages in all of these prisons, that should never be permitted.”

– Abby Hopper Gibbons