Mabel Gardiner Hubbard was born on November 25, 1857, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of Gardiner Greene Hubbard, a prominent lawyer and the first president of the Bell Telephone Company. Her mother, Gertrude Mercer McCurdy, was a strong advocate for women's education and played a significant role in Mabel's upbringing.
At the age of four, Mabel contracted scarlet fever, which left her deaf. This life-changing event led her father to establish the first oral school for the deaf in the United States, the Clarke School for the Deaf. Despite her deafness, Mabel was determined to communicate and learn. She mastered lip-reading and speech in multiple languages, a remarkable accomplishment for someone with her condition. Her ability to overcome challenges and excel in communication set her apart from many others.
In July 1877, Mabel married Alexander Graham Bell, a pioneering scientist and inventor. Their union was not just a personal one but also a professional partnership, as Mabel became deeply involved in her husband's work. The couple had four children together, and Mabel devoted her life to supporting Alexander in his research and inventions. Their relationship was one of mutual respect, love, and shared goals.
Mabel Gardiner Hubbard's influence extended far beyond her role as the wife of a famous inventor. She played a crucial part in the development of the telephone, helping Alexander Graham Bell refine his ideas and bring his inventions to fruition. Her support and collaboration were instrumental in the success of Bell's work, making her an essential figure in the history of communication technology.
Throughout her life, Mabel was a passionate advocate for the deaf community. She worked tirelessly to promote education and support services for individuals with hearing impairment, continuing the legacy of her father. Mabel also championed women's rights and was actively involved in charitable causes, using her influence for the betterment of society.
After Alexander Graham Bell's death in 1922, Mabel focused on preserving his legacy and furthering his work. She continued to be involved in philanthropy and advocacy, using her resources and influence to make a difference in the world. Mabel Gardiner Hubbard passed away on January 3, 1923, leaving behind a lasting impact on the fields of communication, education, and social progress.