Eugenia Sophia “Jennie” Manning Thomas

Biography

Born in 1834, Eugenia Sophia Manning Thomas—known as Jennie to friends—dedicated herself to East New Market through hospitality and quiet leadership. She raised her family with patience and helped younger women navigate their own responsibilities while the town recovered from the disruptions of war and reconstruction.

Jennie opened her home for celebrations as well as for those needing counsel, always insisting that kindness and resilience would guide the community better than complaint. Her example lives on in the genteel strength that East New Market still celebrates today.