Charlotte Taylor Blow Charless

Charlotte Taylor Blow Charless was a prominent figure in 19th-century St. Louis, known for her humanitarian efforts and her advocacy for social justice. In 1853, she founded the Home of the Friendless, an institution dedicated to providing shelter and care for elderly, indigent women who could no longer support themselves. This home, which was later renamed The Charless Home, continues to serve the community today, having expanded its mission to include retired men since 1996. Charless's commitment to social welfare was deeply rooted in her Christian beliefs and her desire to uplift those in need. In addition to her philanthropic work, Charless authored a biography of her husband, Joseph Charless, Jr., a respected merchant and banker who was tragically assassinated in 1859. Written as a series of letters to her grandchildren, the biography extolled his moral character and contributions to society. Notably, Charless was also an advocate for Dred Scott, a slave who famously sued for his freedom. She and her family provided significant support to Scott during his legal battles, which culminated in a landmark Supreme Court case in 1857 that denied Scott's freedom. Charless's legacy is marked by her dedication to both social reform and her family's involvement in the abolitionist movement, reflecting the complexities of her time and the enduring impact of her efforts on future generations.