The Bethmann family immigrated to the United States from Germany, where the kindergarten movement originated. Emilie Bethmann served as the principal of the Julia Ward Howe Kindergarten School in Boston.
Her contributions to early childhood education were significant in shaping the development of kindergartens in Boston’s public school system. Freida Bethmann, Emilie’s daughter, followed in her mother’s footsteps, initially assisting her before becoming principal of the Thomas N. Hart Kindergarten School. During President Grover Cleveland’s second term, Freida was personally invited by the President and his wife to teach their two daughters at the White House, a prestigious recognition of her expertise. Freida’s leave of absence was granted by the Boston School Committee to accept the role, further advancing the Bethmanns’ legacy in early education.
