Herlda Senhouse, the second-oldest U.S. resident, passes away at 113, leaving behind a legacy of education advocacy and community engagement.
At a Glance
- Herlda Senhouse, born in 1911, died peacefully at 113 years old in Wellesley, Massachusetts.
- She founded the Boston Clique Club to support black students’ education.
- At 105 years of age, Senhouse participated in the New England Centenarian Study to aid aging research.
- Her life spanned significant historical events, including both World Wars and the Civil Rights Movement.
A Life of Perseverance and Purpose
Herlda Senhouse, a beacon of resilience and dedication, passed away at the remarkable age of 113. Born on February 28, 1911, in Piedmont, West Virginia, Senhouse’s journey took her from the segregated South to becoming a pillar of her community in Wellesley, Massachusetts. At 16, she moved to Woburn, Massachusetts, to live with her aunt, graduating from Woburn High School and setting the stage for a life devoted to education and community service.
Despite facing racial barriers that prevented her from pursuing a nursing career in 1931, Senhouse’s determination remained unshaken. She worked as a housekeeper, but her true calling lay in advocacy for education. This passion led her to found the Boston Clique Club, an organization dedicated to supporting black students in their educational pursuits, demonstrating her commitment to opening doors for others that had once been closed to her.
Herlda Senhouse, the second-oldest U.S. resident, dies at age 113 https://t.co/gc6xuKsUaH
— The Associated Press (@AP) November 19, 2024
Contributing to Science and Society
Senhouse’s contributions extended beyond her immediate community. At the age of 105, she participated in the New England Centenarian Study, playing a crucial role in advancing our understanding of longevity and healthy aging. Her dedication to scientific progress didn’t end there; she made the selfless decision to donate her brain to research after her death, ensuring that her legacy would continue to benefit future generations.
“She never missed an opportunity to learn more, do more, experience more,” said Wellesley Public Information Officer Stephanie Hawkinson, highlighting Senhouse’s insatiable curiosity and zest for life.
Senhouse’s life spanned over a century of American history, witnessing both World Wars, the Great Depression, the Civil Rights Movement, and two global pandemics. Her experiences provided a unique perspective on the nation’s progress and challenges, making her a living testament to the resilience of the American spirit.
A Community Icon
In Wellesley, Senhouse became more than just a resident; she was a beloved figure whose impact was felt by all who knew her. Her adventurous spirit and commitment to community engagement inspired those around her, young and old alike. Stephanie Hawkinson aptly described Senhouse’s impact, stating, “She was truly an inspiration to so many in our community.”
Senhouse attributed her longevity to not having children and maintaining a strong network of friends and family. Her life serves as a reminder of the power of community, lifelong learning, and purposeful living. As the nation mourns the loss of its second-oldest resident, it also celebrates a life well-lived—a life that touched countless others and left an indelible mark on American society.
