Despite being a widow with seven children, Rebecca Tylor (1823–1884) was indomitable in addressing local ills: She educated free and enslaved blacks, sought fair treatment for county “Poor House” inmates, demanded equal rights for women, advocated prohibition, took in abandoned infants and led town improvements. The latter ranged from Denton’s initial library to the first street lamps. For income she used her home as both a boarding house as well as a private school.

In partnership with the Town and Denton Development Corporation, the Society is working to create the Rebecca Tylor Center to help address the town’s housing needs

The dwelling was rescued from demolition for one reason: Rebecca Tylor was a conscientious 19th century reformer.