An award of merit and a silk streamer/bookmark verify Sarah Elizabeth Moughon’s attendance at the Lydia English Female Seminary in Washington, D.C. The well-known Georgetown school was founded in 1826 by Lydia English, who served as principal for more than 30 years.
The certificate dated February 11, 1847, rewarded Sarah’s “diligence and attention to her studies.” Eighteen-year-old Sarah, a student from Columbus, Ga., cherished these mementos of her education. Her great-granddaughter donated these items to the DAR Museum, noting that Sarah made the streamer at the seminary.
Teachers and principals gave awards of merit to students both to encourage and reward their scholastic efforts. Rewards for excellence in scholarship, specific subjects, attendance, conduct, deportment and other achievements were not uncommon. Whether handwritten, printed, painted in watercolor, or engraved in silver or other metals, awards like these were important to 18th- and 19th-century children and their parents.