Hanson, Agatha Tiegel

Born at Pittsburgh, PA; deaf and blind in one eye at age 7 from meningitis. After private school and private tutoring, entered the Western Pennsylvania Institution for the Deaf and Dumb in 1886. Graduated Gallaudet College (1893), presenting a valedictorian speech, "The Intellect of Women" at the Gallaudet commencement. Often, but erroneously, called Gallaudet's first female graduate (the actual first was Alto May Lowman Kavanaugh, q.v., in 1892). Published several poems, including a book, Overflow Verses. Taught at the Minnesota School for the Deaf for 6 years before her marriage to Olof Hanson (q.v.) Hanson Plaza at Gallaudet University is named in her honor.