Cotton Canvas Tote Bag (SUSIE KING)

Susie King Taylor, born Susan Ann Baker on August 6, 1848, was an American nurse, educator, and memoirist. She holds the distinction of being the first African-American nurse during the American Civil War. Born into slavery in coastal Georgia, she escaped to Union lines and joined the 1st South Carolina Volunteer Infantry Regiment, where she served as a nurse and teacher.

Taylor was also the first Black woman to self-publish her memoirs, detailing her experiences during the war in her book, “Reminiscences of My Life in Camp with the 33rd United States Colored Troops, Late 1st S.C. Volunteers”. After the war, she continued her work as an educator, opening schools for formerly enslaved people in Savannah, Georgia.

Her life story is a testament to her resilience and dedication to helping others, despite the many challenges she faced