Eliza Agnew (1807-1883) was born in New York City. She became a missionary to Ceylon in 1840 and was the first female missionary to that country. She became the head of the Central Boarding School for girls where she remained for 40 years. During her tenure, more than 1,000 students came under her care, with many becoming Christians. She dedicated her life to bringing the Gospel message to the children of Ceylon.