In the family 's first few years in Chicago , McDowell was involved in various relief efforts and religious involvement . During the Great Chicago Fire in 1871 , McDowell and her father worked to help refugees by transporting people and their belongings to the makeshift camp away from the fire . When aid was received from Ohio , McDowell took the lead in the relief effort and was later recognized by President Rutherford B. Hayes for her service . She later organized religious classes for young people that attracted prominent figures in the temperance movement , students from Northwestern University , and residents of Chicago
Great Chicago Fire
Great Chicago Fire
Mary McDowell