Sojourner Truth

Born Isabella Baumfree in 1797 to slave parents, Sojourner Truth was destined for an eventful life. She was one of thirteen children born to James and Betsy Baumfree.

Sojourner lived a troubled early life. She was sold to several slave owners over a short span of year, and she was put through much abuse at the hands of many of her owners. On July 4, 1827, the state of New York passed a state emancipation act causing all existing slaves to be released--but new slaves did not have the right to this freedom. Sojourner's owner, Mr. Dumont, promised her freedom a year before the emancipation but denied her freedom when she injured her hand spinning wool.

In late 1926, Truth escaped to freedom with her infant daughter Sophia. This action was a difficult decision for her because she had to leave her other children and her husband behind. When Sojourner got to free soil, the Von Wagener's assisted her. She was introduced to the church and became a follower of the Christian faith.

On June 1, 1843, Isabella Baumfree was transformed into Sojourner Truth. She changed her name as a result of choosing to become a traveling missionary. In 1851 at the Ohio Women's Rights Convention, Sojourner delivered her famous "Ain't I a Woman?" speech. During the American Civil War, Sojourner recruited many black soldiers to fight on the side of the Union Army. In 1872, Sojourner attempted to vote in the presidential election, but she was turned away at the poll.

Joshua Burston, Editor