The women who founded RISD were "the wives, nieces or daughters of the captains of industry." They were "united by their interests in education, culture and advancing the role of women in the public sphere," Barrett wrote.

...Thirty-four women formed the Women's Centennial Committee in Providence to raise funds for the celebration of the nation's 100th birthday in 1876. When the big event was over, they had a surplus of $1,675. They used it to start the Rhode Island School of Design.