Frances Henley

Frances Evelyn Henley (ca. 1896–1955) was an American architect. Henley was born in Crompton, Rhode Island to Charles A. and Mary E. Booth Henley. She grew up in Providence and became the first woman to study at the Rhode Island School of Design for architecture. In 1897 she graduated, with honors, and became a drafter for local architect Franklin J. Sawtelle. When the founder of the firm died, Henley became the president of the firm and ran the organization for 30 years. She was the first female architect in Rhode Island to practice under her own name. Henley designed mainly private residences along the Atlantic coast. She also designed the Wheeler School in Providence. She died in 1955 at her home in Pawtuxet, Rhode Island.