Sophronia "Sophie" Harvey was born in 1850 and crossed the country by wagon train at age 2. She grew up in the Sierra foothills, moving to the brand new village of Salinas in 1868. Within weeks, she was hired (at age 17) to be the first teacher. Her classroom was a converted tavern with boxes for seats and desks. The first class started with 9 students, including her little sister. Within two years, a school was built and enrollment had climbed to 80. Sophronia is recognized as the "founding teacher" of the Salinas City Elementary District. Sophie's home is a living history museum and the 1000+ third graders who visit each year love to see the original bell used to call students to class. In addition to being the first teacher, Sophie and her sister started the first Sunday School (before any churches had been planted). She lived to be 93 and was recognized as one of the pillars of the city.