Betty Knox

1908 - 1966

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Born in Hartford, Betty Knox graduated from city schools, Miss Wheeler’s School in Providence, and the Yale School of Drama.

World War II

During World War II, she opened a day care center in Charter Oak Terrace to supervise children of working mothers. This work led to her interest in city affairs. She joined the Hartford League of Women Voters.

Hartford City Council

In the 1950s & 60s, Knox served six terms on Hartford’s City Council. She was committed to urban renewal, city parks, zoning protection for residential neighborhoods, and providing opportunities to underprivileged residents.

Knox Foundation

Upon her death in 1966, Knox left $2.5 million of her nearly $4.2 million estate to the charitable foundation which she started. The funds were to be used to “create, beautify and improve parks and other areas open to use or view by the public.” Today two organizations carry on her legacy, the Betty Knox Foundation and Knox Inc.

Location:
Section 10, Lot 61

References:

Hartford Courant. “Elizabeth Knox, Woman of the Year.” April 3, 1956

Hartford Courant. “Betty Knox, 57, Dies Suddenly.” October 3, 1966

Hartford Courant. “Betty Knox Remembered.” February 11, 1967

Hartford Courant. “$4.2 Million Left by Betty Knox.” April 11, 1969

Photo Credit:

Betty Knox, Public Domain