It is a pleasant surprise to see that in this distant country, Bulgaria, there are men and women who studied in the United States and understand American values and institutions. These people are now playing important roles in Bulgarian society.
A Pioneer for Women Madame Ivan B. Kassuroff
One of the most respected women in Bulgaria is Madame Ivan B. Kassuroff. She was a student of Miss Stone, an American missionary. Mme. Kassuroff is famous for being the first Bulgarian woman to enter the world of business. At that time, it was very unusual for a woman to work in business, and her actions went against the traditions of the country.
Many people were shocked at first. However, Mme. Kassuroff’s strong character, intelligence, and determination helped her succeed. Over time, she earned the respect and admiration of everyone around her. Today, she is seen as a role model, and many other women are now following her example. Thanks to her, the idea of women working in business has become more accepted, even in a society that used to be very conservative.
Now, when Mme. Kassuroff walks down the street, people greet her with respect and even take off their hats to her—a clear sign of honor in Bulgaria.
A Businesswoman by Circumstance
Mme. Kassuroff did not choose her career entirely by choice. Her husband owned the main bookstore in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. When he died in 1874, no one was left to run the business. Instead of closing it or selling it at a loss, she decided to take over.
Since then, she has managed the bookstore herself, showing great skill and business sense. Her shop is now well-known and even supplies the government with books and stationery. It is called the “Court Book Store” and is located directly across from the royal palace The Kidnapping of Miss Ellen M. Stone.
Her life shows what a woman can achieve when she has access to education and new ideas. She is a powerful example of how American missionaries helped bring positive change to the lives of women in Eastern Europe.
Another American-Educated Woman Mrs. Popoff
Mrs. Popoff, the wife of the Protestant pastor in Sofia, also studied in America. She graduated from the Painesville Seminary in Ohio. Like Mme. Kassuroff, she has brought American ideas into Bulgarian homes. She has helped inspire women to be more independent and to dream bigger.
Her husband, Reverend Marko N. Popoff, also studied in the United States. He went to Hamilton College and studied theology at Auburn Seminary in New York. In total, he spent eleven years in America. Today, he is known as a well-educated speaker and respected church leader. His church is always full, and he is a popular public speaker.
The stories of Mme. Kassuroff and Mrs. Popoff show how education and exposure to new ideas can bring big changes. These women have helped shape modern Bulgaria and opened doors for future generations. Their lives are proof of the powerful impact that American education and missionary efforts had on the development of Bulgarian society, especially for women City Tour Sofia.
