The Maternal Association of Milltown St. Stephen was organized at a meeting held 13 January 1836 at St. Stephen, New Brunswick. The association's primary purpose was to support mothers, with the aid of the Holy Spirit, to train-up their children "in the way they should go." Any mother could become a member. Children were also considered members and were invited to attend some meetings. Maria Shepard was chosen first directress and Mary B. Porter was appointed first secretary of the association.

Regular meetings took the form of scripture readings, prayers, singing, and discussions on relevant topics, such as duties required in training-up children, the importance of fortifying children's minds against the influence and doctrines of popery, and how mothers could secure the confidence of their children.

Mothers were encouraged to read their Bibles regularly, to pray for their children, to engage in self-discipline, and to restrain children from engaging in activities that would lead to vanity, pride, and worldly mindedness. The group was active as late as 1846 and possibly later.