Martha Jane Hunt was born in Baltimore, Maryland. Her early childhood provided a foundation for her future resilience and resourcefulness.

Details of Martha's formal education are scarce, but it is likely she received basic schooling common for girls of her social standing at the time. Her family life instilled values of independence and self-reliance.

As a young woman, Martha showed a keen interest in science and innovation, fueled by an insatiable curiosity and an inventive mind.

Martha married Benjamin Franklin Coston, a promising young scientist and inventor. This union would have a profound impact on her life, both personally and professionally.