Caroline Rose Foster
Caroline Rose Foster (6 April 1877 – 26 July 1979) was an American farmer and philanthropist who managed Fosterfields, a working farm in Morristown, New Jersey, United States.
Caroline Rose Foster | |
|---|---|
Foster photographed in 1917 | |
| Born | April 6, 1877 |
| Died | July 26, 1979 (aged 102) Morris Township, New Jersey |
| Education | Miss Dana's School for Young Ladies |
| Occupation(s) | Farmer and philanthropist |
| Known for | Contributions to Morris County |
Foster was a member of over 30 civic and historical organizations including the Washington Association, Washington Valley Community, Madison Historical Society, Canal Society of N.J., Morris County Golf Club, Morristown Lawn Tennis Club, the Woman's Club of Morristown, and the Morris County Historical Society. She was skilled in fishing, writing, local politics, and carpentry.
Beginning in 1910 and throughout her life, Foster challenged gender roles of the Progressive Era by wearing men's clothing including men's hats, pants, shoes, and tuxedos.
Upon her death in 1979, she donated much of her estate (historic objects, Revere home, and farm) to the Morris County Park Commission in order to "preserve her beloved home and open it to visitors." She lived 99 of her 102 years on the Fosterfields property.
In 2009, Foster was among 100 women honored by the National Women's History Project as "women taking the lead to save our planet".