Florence Jessica Tryon, born in 1859, defied societal expectations and remained single and childless, but her bequest has supported the educational aspirations of hundreds of students for more than 50 years.
Citizen's Scholarship Foundation of WestfieldBy Citizens' Scholarship Foundation of Westfield
Florence Jessica Tryon was a very independent woman. Born in 1859, she defied traditional societal expectations by remaining single throughout her entire life. Florence lived her way on her terms, and nothing daunted this spirited individual.
What life experiences helped to shape and influence this amazing woman?
Florence was a toddler during our nation’s most tragic discord - the Civil War. Growing up in New York City, she was far away from the ravages of battle, and her parents, Andrew and Julie (Hedges) Tryon, doted on their only child.
After witnessing incomprehensible loss of human life, they showered their daughter with all their love. Florence grew up during the most turbulent time in our nation’s history, but she felt safe and loved in New York City.
Family connections continued to shape the path of Florence’s life. In the early 1900s, she moved to Westfield to be closer to her two cousins, Mrs. Edward Smith and Edwin Hedges.
Florence was happy in Westfield, and she retained her independent lifestyle here. Not even multiple disasters could drive Florence from Westfield.
Like that lucky cat with nine lives, Florence Tryon had the harrowing experience of escaping from three serious catastrophes. For many years she made her home at the former Park Square Hotel in Westfield.
When the hotel was badly damaged by fire, she promptly moved into the former Van Deusen Inn on Court Street. Florence was a resident there when that structure was destroyed by fire in 1936. Seven lives were lost in that conflagration, but Florence survived with only injuries.
Undeterred, she returned to the renovated Park Square Hotel. In December 1942, that hotel was completely consumed by another fire. Lady Luck helped Florence to escape that tragedy unharmed.
Still loyal to Westfield, Florence continued to live here until she entered a Springfield nursing home four years later. She died on Feb. 15, 1950, but was returned to her beloved Westfield to be buried.
Florence Tryon’s independent spirit lives on in the following bequest she made in her will: “Establish a trust to provide college scholarships for Westfield students.”
This compassionate woman never married and never had children, but her loving generosity has helped hundreds of Westfield students for more than 50 years.