“ When, in the early Iowa days, she had to teach her own little ones, the children of the neighbors were invited to join. She was completely democratic in her spirit; indeed, it would be difficult to find one who had more absolutely escaped the consciousness of social lines. Born of a family running back into the New England stock on all lines, surrounded by refinement and luxury during her early life, she entered into the spirit of her pioneer life in both Iowa and Dakota, never recognizing hardships when they came, and entering into hearty comradeship with every neighbor. ”

“ Her mother died early and left a family of children, for whom Ellen cared. She studied diligently and followed the course of study of Brown University with her brother, Rev. lames Wheaton Smith. She became the wife of Mr. Tupper, a man of great spirituality. ”