The purpose of this study is to trace the initial stage of development of women's education in the Bombay presidency (Maharashtra, India). The first girls ' schools were opened mainly by the missionary societies of the United Kingdom and the United States. From their reports it is possible to trace the funding, the national composition of the schools, teaching methods, as well as the response to the innovations of traditional Indian society. The materials of the article can be used in the development of sociological and historical research and training courses.