search

35 Facts About Ona Judge

Teddi Clement

Written by Teddi Clement

Modified & Updated: 02 Dec 2024

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
35-facts-about-ona-judge
Source: Seacoastonline.com

Who was Ona Judge? Ona Judge, also known as Oney Judge, was an enslaved African American woman who courageously escaped from President George Washington's household. Born around 1773 at Mount Vernon, she served Martha Washington. In 1796, Ona made a daring escape to New Hampshire, seeking freedom. Despite Washington's relentless efforts to recapture her, Ona remained free for the rest of her life. Her story highlights the complexities of slavery in early America and the relentless pursuit of freedom by those enslaved. Ona Judge's life is a testament to bravery, resilience, and the unyielding quest for liberty.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ona Judge, a courageous woman born into slavery, escaped from the Washingtons and lived most of her life as a free woman, inspiring discussions about freedom and American history.
  • Ona Judge's escape from slavery and her resilience continue to inspire books, plays, and discussions about the complexities of the Founding Fathers and the fight for freedom.
Table of Contents
01Early Life of Ona Judge
02Life at the President's House
03The Escape to Freedom
04Life in New Hampshire
05Encounters with the Washingtons
06Later Years and Legacy
07Ona Judge in Popular Culture
08Interesting Tidbits
09Ona Judge's Legacy

Early Life of Ona Judge

Ona Judge, also known as Oney Judge, was born into slavery but her story is one of courage and resilience. Here are some fascinating facts about her early years.

  1. Ona Judge was born around 1773 at Mount Vernon, George Washington's plantation in Virginia.
  2. Her mother, Betty, was an enslaved seamstress, while her father, Andrew Judge, was a white indentured servant.
  3. Ona had several siblings, including a brother named Austin, who also worked at Mount Vernon.
  4. She began working in the mansion at a young age, learning skills such as sewing and household management.

Life at the President's House

Ona Judge's life took a significant turn when she was chosen to serve George Washington's wife, Martha. This role brought her to the President's House in Philadelphia.

  1. In 1789, Ona was selected to accompany the Washingtons to New York City, the nation's first capital.
  2. When the capital moved to Philadelphia in 1790, Ona continued to serve the Washington family there.
  3. Philadelphia had a large free Black community, which influenced Ona's views on freedom.
  4. Ona was responsible for Martha Washington's personal needs, including dressing her and maintaining her wardrobe.

The Escape to Freedom

Ona Judge's daring escape from the Washingtons' household is a testament to her bravery and determination. Here are some key moments from her escape.

  1. In May 1796, Ona learned she was to be given as a wedding gift to Martha Washington's granddaughter.
  2. Ona fled the President's House on May 21, 1796, with the help of Philadelphia's free Black community.
  3. She boarded a ship bound for Portsmouth, New Hampshire, seeking refuge far from the Washingtons' reach.
  4. George Washington placed advertisements in newspapers offering a reward for her capture.

Life in New Hampshire

Ona Judge found a new life in New Hampshire, but her struggles were far from over. Here are some facts about her life after escaping slavery.

  1. Ona found work as a seamstress and domestic servant in Portsmouth.
  2. She married a free Black sailor named Jack Staines in 1797.
  3. The couple had three children: Eliza, Nancy, and William.
  4. Despite her new life, Ona lived in constant fear of being recaptured by the Washingtons.

Encounters with the Washingtons

Even after her escape, Ona Judge had several encounters with people connected to the Washingtons. These interactions highlight the ongoing challenges she faced.

  1. In 1798, Ona was approached by a friend of the Washingtons, who tried to persuade her to return voluntarily.
  2. Ona refused, stating she would rather suffer death than return to slavery.
  3. George Washington continued to pursue her capture until his death in 1799.
  4. Martha Washington also made efforts to reclaim Ona, but they were unsuccessful.

Later Years and Legacy

Ona Judge's later years were marked by hardship, but her legacy as a symbol of resistance endures. Here are some facts about her final years and lasting impact.

  1. After her husband's death in 1803, Ona struggled to support her children alone.
  2. She faced poverty and discrimination but remained steadfast in her resolve to stay free.
  3. Ona gave interviews to abolitionist newspapers, sharing her story and advocating for the end of slavery.
  4. Her story was published in the Granite Freeman in 1845, bringing her tale of resistance to a wider audience.
  5. Ona Judge died in 1848, having lived the majority of her life as a free woman.

Ona Judge in Popular Culture

Ona Judge's story has inspired many works of art and literature. Here are some ways her legacy has been honored in popular culture.

  1. Ona's story has been featured in several books, including "Never Caught: The Washingtons' Relentless Pursuit of Their Runaway Slave, Ona Judge" by Erica Armstrong Dunbar.
  2. Her life has been the subject of plays and documentaries, bringing her story to new audiences.
  3. Ona Judge's escape is often highlighted in discussions about the complexities of the Founding Fathers and slavery.
  4. Her story is included in educational programs and exhibits about American history and the fight for freedom.

Interesting Tidbits

There are many lesser-known facts about Ona Judge that add depth to her story. Here are a few intriguing details.

  1. Ona was literate, a rare skill for an enslaved person at the time.
  2. She maintained correspondence with her brother Austin, who remained enslaved at Mount Vernon.
  3. Ona's escape was one of the earliest and most publicized acts of resistance by an enslaved person in the United States.
  4. Her story challenges the traditional narrative of the Washingtons as benevolent slaveholders.
  5. Ona Judge's life is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of those who fought for their freedom.
  6. Her legacy continues to inspire discussions about race, freedom, and the complexities of American history.

Ona Judge's Legacy

Ona Judge's story is a powerful reminder of the strength and courage it takes to fight for freedom. Born into slavery, she escaped from George Washington's household, risking everything for a chance at a life of her own choosing. Her journey wasn't easy, facing numerous challenges and constant threats of recapture. Yet, she remained steadfast, never returning to bondage.

Her life sheds light on the harsh realities of slavery and the relentless pursuit of liberty. Ona's legacy continues to inspire, showing that even in the darkest times, hope and determination can lead to change. Her story isn't just a chapter in history; it's a testament to the human spirit's resilience. By remembering Ona Judge, we honor all those who fought and continue to fight for freedom and justice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What made Ona Judge famous?
Ona Judge gained notoriety for her daring escape from enslavement by George and Martha Washington. Her quest for freedom in the late 18th century became a symbol of resistance against the institution of slavery in America.
How did Ona Judge manage to escape?
She seized an opportunity one spring evening in 1796, slipping away from the President's House in Philadelphia. Using her wits and the cover of night, Judge embarked on a journey to New Hampshire, evading capture for the rest of her life despite the Washingtons' efforts to reclaim her.
Where did Ona Judge live after her escape?
After her escape, Ona Judge found refuge in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. There, she lived out her days, marrying and starting a family, all while maintaining a low profile to avoid being recaptured.
Did George Washington try to recapture Ona Judge?
Yes, George Washington made several attempts to recapture Ona Judge. He even enlisted the help of his nephew and the Secretary of the Treasury to help in these efforts, but Judge skillfully evaded all attempts to bring her back into enslavement.
How is Ona Judge remembered today?
Ona Judge is remembered as a symbol of courage and the will to fight for one's freedom. Her story is celebrated in books, documentaries, and educational materials, highlighting her as an important figure in the struggle against slavery in the United States.
Were there any legal consequences for Ona Judge's escape?
Despite the Washingtons' efforts, Ona Judge was never recaptured, nor did she face legal consequences for her escape. Her successful flight to freedom stands as a testament to her determination and cunning.
How did Ona Judge's story come to light?
Ona Judge's story was largely unknown until the 19th century when interviews she gave to abolitionist newspapers were published. These firsthand accounts provided a rare and valuable perspective on the life of a fugitive from slavery, offering insights into her experiences and the challenges she faced.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.