The Schoolmarm

“Wanted: School teacher, male or female, for new school being built in Topeka, Kansas. Miss Sarah Harlan will be accepting applications for this position at the Union Hotel in Kansas City, Missouri. (Missouri River Levee, Westport Landing) during June 2, 3, 4, 1856; 10 am to p.m. daily. No appointment required. Must have proof of grades and graduation. Letter of recommendation suggested but not required. If under age 16, a parent or custodial adult must accompany the applicant. The school term begins August 11, 1856, and is a standard 10-month term. The school is located 2 miles southeast of the town of Topeka near the village of Mission. Compensation includes room and board. A monetary payment will be added at time of hiring. Minimum $3 per month. Transportation to Topeka and housing will be provided and paid for by the Topeka Education Committee.” Olivia Nygaard found this posted on the Community Board at the Mercantile in Independence, Missouri. Her hometown. She answered the ad, passed all the requirements, and took the stagecoach to Topeka, Kansas. This book relates her first year as a Kansas Schoolmarm.