Born in Massachusetts in January 1870, Sprague graduated from Bridgewater State Normal School as a member of the class of 1887.

"[9] Built in 1942, the M. Estella Sprague Residence Hall, a three-story dormitory on UConn's main campus in Storrs, is named in her honor.

Over 7,000 items were donated by Sprague and other collectors and assembled under the direction of faculty members Nellie Gard and Margaret Gaylord.

Ranging from ancient Egyptian fabrics to contemporary designer dresses, the materials supported the curricular of the School of Home Economics.

[12] An exhibit, "Perfect in Her Place: Women at Work in Industrial America," at the Homer Babbidge Library showcasing Sprague's collection ran from March through April 1985.