Adoniram Judson's life left an indelible mark not only in America but around the world—most notably in Burma (Myanmar), where his mission sparked a lasting spiritual and cultural legacy. His translation of the Bible into Burmese and the establishment of churches, schools, and printing presses continue to influence generations.
His legacy was also shaped by the courageous women who stood by him—all three Mrs. Judsons brought strength, sacrifice, and steadfast faith, playing vital roles in both his personal endurance and the lasting impact of his mission. Each of his wives are regarded as influential missionary woman in American history, leaving their own extraordinary imprint on history. Together, these women shared in a powerful legacy of service, faith, and cultural bridge-building that transcends generations and continues to inspire today.
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Ann Hasseltine Judson (1789–1826)
Ann Hasseltine Judson, the first wife of Adoniram Judson, was a pioneering missionary, educator, and translator. In 1812, just two weeks after marrying, she and Adoniram sailed from Salem, Massachusetts to India as the first foreign missionaries sent by the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions (ABCFM). In 1813 they arrived in Burma to establish the first American Baptist mission.
Renowned for her courage and eloquence, Ann fearlessly lobbied Burmese officials during Adoniram’s imprisonment, risking her own life to ensure his survival.
Ann shared the gospel with Burmese women, advocated to empowering women, championed female education, founded the first girls’ school in Burma, translated the Book of Jonah into Burmese and the Gospel of Matthew into Siamese, and compiled a Burmese catechism.
She died in 1826 in Amherst, Burma (Kyaikkami, Myanmar) from complications of fever and exhaustion, at age 36. Ann is remembered as the first American woman missionary and a trailblazer in women’s education and Christian mission work.
Sarah Boardman Judson (1803–1845)
Sarah Boardman Judson, Adoniram’s second wife, was a gifted missionary and linguist. She first arrived in Burma in 1825 with her first husband George Boardman and became one of the earliest missionaries to reach the Karen people. After George’s death in 1831, Sarah chose to remain in Burma and continue the mission work.
She married Adoniram Judson in 1834 and worked alongside him to translate portions of the New Testament into Burmese, compose hymns, and translate Christian tracts into Taling and Peguan. She was deeply committed to teaching and uplifting Burmese women and children, playing a vital role in the growth of the Christian community during a crucial time.
As her health declined, Adoniram attempted to bring her back to America by sea. Sadly, Sarah died en route and was buried on the island of St. Helena in August 1845.
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Emily Chubbuck Judson (1817–1854)
Emily Chubbuck Judson, Adoniram’s third wife, was a respected author, poet, and biographer, known also by her pen name “Fanny Forester.” She met Judson when he asked her to write a memoir of his late wife, Sarah Boardman Judson, and they married in 1846.
Emily joined him at the Baptist mission in Burma, where she cared for him and their family during his final years and remained devoted to the mission. After his death in 1850, and the loss of their infant son, she returned to the U.S. in 1851.
She helped compile materials for Francis Wayland’s biography of Judson and authored several works herself, including the widely read "Memoir of Adoniram Judson," which helped raise awareness of his life and missionary legacy. She died of tuberculosis in Hamilton, New York, in 1854, at age 36.