In celebration of Women’s History Month Pick Up Sticks Jewelry Company is featuring a prominent woman and highlighting the impact she had on the world. And, to add a little more fun to the history lesson, we are selecting jewelry charms that embody each woman’s unique personality and accomplishments. Today we are celebrating Clara Barton.
Finding Her Calling
Educator, nurse, and founder of the American Red Cross, Clara Barton was born Clarissa Harlowe Barton on December 25, 1821, in Oxford, Massachusetts. Barton spent much of her life in the service of others and created an organization that still helps people in need today–the American Red Cross. She had a crucial and long-lasting impact on care-giving and disaster relief both in America and throughout the world.
A shy child, she first found her calling when she tended to her brother David after he sustained a severe head injury. She continued to care for him long after doctors had given up. He made a full recovery. Barton later found another outlet for her desire to be helpful when she became a teacher at age 15 and later opened a free public school in New Jersey.
Angel of the Battlefield and Beyond
After the war ended in 1865, Clara worked for the War Department, helping to both reunite soldiers and their families and to find out more about those who were missing. She also became a lecturer, speaking to crowds of people about her war experiences.
Later, Barton threw herself into relief work in Europe. Impressed with the International Red Cross during that time, she lobbied for the United States ratification of the Red Cross Treaty. She is credited as the founder of the American Red Cross and served for many years as its president.
Charming Clara
Pick Up Sticks Jewelry charms that salute Clara’s caring and courage include “Healing Heart” and “Grow Color.” “Healing Heart” features a beautiful women with archangel wings and declares, “Healing is a work of heart,” as well as the words, “someone to watch over me.” “Grow Color” features a mighty oak tree, branches spread, and references Clara’s words regarding the Red Cross: “…like the sturdy oak, its spreading branches shall yet encompass and shelter the relief of the nation.”