Ellen Henrietta Swallow Richards was an American chemist, educator, and pioneer in the field of sanitary engineering. Born on December 3, 1842, in Dunstable, Massachusetts, Richards is widely regarded as the founder of the field of home economics. She was educated at Vassar College and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), becoming the first woman admitted to MIT and ultimately the first woman to earn a degree there.
Richards dedicated her career to studying the application of chemistry and scientific principles to improve and promote public health and sanitation. She conducted extensive research on water quality, examining the impact of pollution and advocating for the implementation of water treatment systems. Richards also studied nutrition and household management, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition, hygiene, and efficient home practices.
In addition to her scientific contributions, Richards was an influential educator. She co-founded the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and established the first laboratory devoted to household research and chemistry at MIT. She also authored numerous books and articles, promoting the scientific approach to home management and advocating for women's education.
Ellen Henrietta Swallow Richards' work laid the foundation for the modern field of home economics, which encompasses a scientific approach to household management, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. Her contributions to the field of chemistry and sanitary engineering have had a lasting impact on public health and the improvement of living conditions for countless individuals.
