Google Doodle Wishes Jane Addams A Happy Birthday

By Lisa White in News on Sep 6, 2013 7:40PM

Today's Google Doodle celebrates the birth of Jane Addams, co-founder of Hull-House, who was born 155 years ago today. Hull-House was the first settlement house in the United States, and was founded with the purpose of providing both social and educational opportunities to the mostly immigrant neighborhood of Maxwell Street. Hull-House offered classes, lectures, and social events on a variety of topics to help neighbors adjust to their new life in America. Addams was also the first American woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in social and political activism.

Sadly Hull-House filed for bankruptcy and shut down last year, while the museum and research facility ran by the University of Illinois continues to stay open. You can still visit the facility and learn about the vital work that Jane Addams and Hull-House offered the Chicago community. Addams hometown of Cedarville, Illl. is also celebrating her birth later this month with Jane Addams Festival on Sept. 21. The festival includes a 5k run/walk on the Jane Addams trail, exhibits from local artists and an afternoon of folk music performances.