Penny, Virginia
- Susan H. Gensemer
Extract
Penny, Virginia (18 January 1826–04 April 1913), author, social reformer, and pioneer in the study of women's labor markets, was born in Louisville, Kentucky, the daughter of Rachel Ruble, farmer, and William Penny, farmer and politician.
Penny's father was active in Louisville affairs; he was a city councilman and was one of the founders of the Louisville Savings Bank. He also owned slaves. Penny's mother continued in farming with two of her sons after her husband's death....