The Remarkable Life and Career of Ellen Swallow Richards: Pioneer in Science and Technology

Chapter 6

No Wasted Minutes

“They are so afraid we shall break down and you know the reputation of the College is at stake, for the question is, can girls get a college degree without injuring their health?”

~ Ellen Swallow, October 4, 1868

“He is such a large-souled, noble man and a deep thinker,” Ellen wrote. “There is an intellectual power about him.” She was describing Charles S. Farrar, professor of natural science, mathematics, and physics. He was known for being a powerful lecturer and “a man of wonderful magnetism.” He introduced Ellen to “applied science,” meaning that it should be useful. Hoping for a career of social service, and wanting to help improve the world, Ellen felt captivated and excited by Professor Farrar’s branch of science.

When he set up a class in analytical chemistry, Ellen leapt at the chance to participate. One of just three students in the course, she scoured the college campus, searching for things to analyze—pond water, shoe polish, baking soda, cleaning compounds, food, leather, coal tar—whatever she could find, measure, and study. There was no stopping her. She understood how this branch of science would be useful in so many different areas—geology, archaeology, medicine, food, air ventilation, industry, the environment—everywhere! Thrilled, she saw the clear connection between “The facts … of science and the … problems of common life.” One day she might be able to do something about filthy city conditions, such as she’d seen in Albany on her ...