Adelaide Hoodless

Adelaide Sophia Hoodless (née Addie Hunter; February 27, 1858 – February 26, 1910) was a Canadian educational reformer whose work helped shape the development of domestic science in Canada.

Active in Hamilton, Ontario, she became a prominent public speaker, advocate, and organizer during a period of rapid change for women and families. Hoodless played a central role in the establishment of several major Canadian women’s organizations, including the Women’s Institute, the National Council of Women of Canada, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), and the Victorian Order of Nurses.

Her efforts to promote practical education for women and girls influenced provincial curricula and contributed to the creation of institutions such as the Macdonald Institute in Guelph. Hoodless remained a significant figure in Canadian public life until her sudden death in 1910, and she has since been recognized through national historic designations, memorials, and awards that reflect the lasting impact of her work.