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Famous Residents Jane Addams could be considered one of Rockford’s most famous residents. Born in 1860, Addams attended Rockford Female Seminary in 1877 where she met friends she would later enlist to help her run Hull House. Founded in 1889, Hull House was a world-famous social settlement located in an underprivileged area on Chicago’s west side. Hull House provided social services such as daycare, kindergarten, employment services, educational and cultural classes, and a library to the neighborhood. Addams became a pioneering social worker and feminist with an active speaking schedule that took her to numerous international locations. Addams was very influential as a social reformer in the early 20th century. In 1931 she won a Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote peace and justice internationally. Addams lived and worked in Rockford until she passed away in 1935. Julia Lathrop, another Rockford resident that was instrumental in the field of social reform, was born in 1858. She attended Rockford Female Seminary as well as Vassar College from 1876 to 1880. After working for 10 years in her father’s law office, Lathrop moved to Hull House and joined Jane Addams in her social reforms. In 1912, Lathrop moved to Washington, D.C., when President Taft appointed her as Chief of the Federal Children’s Bureau where she served for 10 years. Lathrop also helped to establish the first United States Juvenile Court. Lathrop returned to Rockford to retire and died on April 15, 1932. QuincyNet Home Copyright© 2002-2003 by QuincyNet, a division of HCW Ltd. All Rights Reserved