35 Facts About Susie King Taylor

Early Life and Education

Susie King Taylor was a remarkable woman whose life was filled with groundbreaking achievements. Let's explore some fascinating facts about her early years and education.

1. Born on August 6, 1848, in Liberty County, Georgia, Susie King Taylor was born into slavery.
2. Despite the restrictions of slavery, she learned to read and write secretly, thanks to the help of two white playmates.
3. At age seven, she moved to Savannah, Georgia, where she continued her education in secret schools for African Americans.
4. By the age of 14, she had become a skilled reader and writer, which was rare for an enslaved person at that time.

Civil War Contributions

Susie King Taylor's contributions during the Civil War were nothing short of extraordinary. Her bravery and skills made a significant impact.

5. In 1862, she escaped slavery with her uncle and found refuge with Union forces on St. Simons Island.
6. She became the first Black woman to serve as a nurse in the Union Army, providing care for wounded soldiers.
7. Taylor also served as a laundress and cook for the 33rd United States Colored Infantry Regiment.
8. She used her literacy skills to teach soldiers how to read and write, helping them communicate with their families.

Post-War Achievements

After the Civil War, Susie King Taylor continued to break barriers and contribute to her community in various ways.

9. She opened a school for African American children in Savannah, Georgia, in 1866.
10. Taylor later moved to Boston, Massachusetts, where she worked as a domestic servant and continued her advocacy for education.
11. In 1902, she published her memoir, "Reminiscences of My Life in Camp," making her one of the first African American women to write a memoir about her wartime experiences.
12. Her memoir provides a rare and valuable perspective on the lives of African American soldiers and civilians during the Civil War.

Legacy and Recognition

Susie King Taylor's legacy continues to inspire and educate people today. Her life and work have been recognized in various ways.

13. In 1989, the Susie King Taylor Women's Institute and Ecology Center was established in her honor.
14. She was posthumously inducted into the Georgia Women of Achievement in 2018.
15. Her contributions to education and civil rights are celebrated annually on Susie King Taylor Day in Georgia.
16. Schools and educational programs across the United States are named after her, ensuring her legacy lives on.

Personal Life and Family

Beyond her public achievements, Susie King Taylor had a rich personal life filled with love and family.

17. She married Edward King, a black non-commissioned officer in the Union Army, in 1862.
18. The couple had three children, though only one, a son named Edward, survived to adulthood.
19. After Edward King's death, she married Russell L. Taylor in 1879.
20. Taylor's family life was marked by resilience and dedication to each other despite the challenges they faced.

Advocacy and Activism

Susie King Taylor was not just a nurse and educator; she was also a passionate advocate for civil rights and social justice.

21. She was an active member of the Women's Relief Corps, an organization that supported Union veterans and their families.
22. Taylor frequently spoke at events and gatherings, sharing her experiences and advocating for the rights of African Americans.
23. She worked tirelessly to improve the living conditions and opportunities for African American communities in the post-war era.
24. Her activism extended to supporting the suffrage movement, believing in the importance of voting rights for all.

Later Years and Death

The later years of Susie King Taylor's life were marked by continued dedication to her community and her family.

25. She spent her final years in Boston, where she remained active in community organizations.
26. Taylor continued to write and share her experiences, leaving behind a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
27. She passed away on October 6, 1912, at the age of 64.
28. Her death was a significant loss, but her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Impact on Education

Susie King Taylor's impact on education, particularly for African Americans, cannot be overstated.

29. She believed strongly in the power of education to uplift and empower individuals and communities.
30. Taylor's efforts to teach soldiers and children alike helped pave the way for future generations of African American educators and students.
31. Her memoir serves as an educational tool, providing insights into the Civil War and the experiences of African Americans during that time.
32. Taylor's dedication to education has inspired countless educators and activists to continue her work.

Honoring Susie King Taylor

Today, Susie King Taylor is honored in various ways, ensuring her contributions are not forgotten.

33. Monuments and historical markers have been erected in her honor, commemorating her life and work.
34. Educational programs and scholarships have been established in her name to support students pursuing careers in education and social justice.
35. Her story is taught in schools and universities, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate her contributions to history.

Susie King Taylor's Legacy Lives On

Susie King Taylor's life was nothing short of extraordinary. Born into slavery, she broke barriers as a nurse, teacher, and author. Her courage and dedication to education and healthcare during the Civil War and Reconstruction era left an indelible mark on history. Taylor's memoirs provide a rare and invaluable perspective on the experiences of African Americans during a tumultuous period in American history.

Her story reminds us of the power of resilience and the importance of education. Taylor's contributions continue to inspire those who fight for equality and justice. By learning about her life, we honor her legacy and ensure that her achievements are never forgotten. Susie King Taylor's remarkable journey serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring impact one person can have on the world.