Jane Washburn Collection

Collection — Box: 1

Identifier: CA 9005

Staff Only

Scope and Contents Note

This collection contains items belonging to Jane Washburn, member of the Class of 1939. It is believed the items in the collection date to 1939 but the exact dates are unknown. The collection includes the following: a gold graduation tassel; a strand of pearls; a plastic graduation cap; and a Russell Sage College compact with mirror. There are also two notes written by Washburn, which gives some context to the items in the collection. For instance, Washburn believed the compact was a favor from the Senior Ball. These notes were written in 1999, when the collection was given to the Sage Colleges Archives & Special Collections via the Chapman Historical Society. The details regarding this transaction are unknown. The notes also talk of a garden party dress, which was worn by Washburn to an event held at the home of Doris Crockett, who was Dean of Russell Sage College. This dress was a part of the original gift and given to the Theater Department. It is unknown if the dress is still housed in department. Washburn also reflects about her time at RSC. She stated she had happy memories of her time and believed she received a good education. It is also learned she still worn her Sage ring with pride.

Dates

1939

Language of Materials

English

Biographic Note

Jane W. Washburn was born on November 3, 1917 in Glens Falls, NY to Hiram Ernest and Hazel Washburn. She attended Glens Falls High School and graduated in 1935. She then enrolled in Russell Sage College and studied Home Economics. Her older sister, Virginia Washburn Barden was also a student at RSC. Washburn graduated in 1939.

After college, Washburn taught home economics in Ripley, N.Y. She returned to Gansevoort, NY a few years later and accepted a teaching position at Hudson Falls High School. Washburn was a dedicated home economics teacher who incorporated social manners and high standards into her class curriculum. She retired from Hudson Falls in 1973.

Washburn enjoyed a fulfilling retirement. She took master classes in needlepoint and embroidery techniques. She also enjoyed gardening and cooking. Washburn was devoted to her family and took pride in her role as “Aunt Jane” to the children of her sisters, of her college roommates and close friends and neighbors.

Washburn died unexpectedly on April 8, 2007.