Charlotte Towle 1896-1966

& Mary Rall 1901-1994

Social workers Charlotte Towle and Mary Rall. Living openly together for over three decades at 5744 S Kenwood, Towle and Rall's relationship was a testament to enduring love and professional partnership. Despite societal norms of the time, their bond was acknowledged and supported by friends and family. Both were graduates of Goucher College in Maryland, which is where they likely met. The 1940 Census even listed Mary Rall as Towle's partner, a significant recognition at the time. Charlotte Towle, celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions to social work education and policy, left an indelible mark on the profession. Towle was the author of an influential text in the Social Work field called "Common Human Needs." Her career included roles with the American Red Cross, Veterans Bureau, Children’s Aid Society, and the Institution for Child Guidance, culminating in a long tenure at the University of Chicago from 1932 to 1962. Mary Rall, also a dedicated social worker, served as a supervisor at United Charities in Chicago, particularly in the Stockyard district, where she demonstrated a strong commitment to improving the lives of the city's most vulnerable populations until her retirement in 1966.