Conn. officials launch annual Crandall recognition

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut officials are launching an annual recognition of Prudence Crandall, a 19th century educator who opened her academy in Canterbury to young black women.

Crandall faced outrage from the community, which persuaded the General Assembly to pass the "Black Law" that made it illegal for her to operate the school. She was arrested, spent a night in jail and faced three court trials.

Her case was dismissed in July 1834.

Crandall was named the State Heroine in 1995.

On Wednesday, Secretary of the State Denise Merrill, Senate President Donald Williams, other lawmakers and friends of the Prudence Crandall Museum will hold the first annual recognition of Crandall. A morning ceremony is planned in front of her statue on the first floor of the state Capitol.