Weekender Bag (Madam C. J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove)

Madam C. J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, was a pioneering African American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and activist. She was born on December 23, 1867, and is widely recognized as the first female self-made millionaire in America1. Madam Walker made her fortune by developing and marketing a line of cosmetics and hair care products specifically for black women through her business, the Madam C. J. Walker Manufacturing Company1.

Her story is one of remarkable triumph over adversity. Orphaned at the age of seven, she started out life with very little and worked as a domestic servant. However, after experiencing a scalp disorder that resulted in hair loss, she was inspired to create her own hair care products2. Her “Walker system” of hair care included scalp preparation, lotions, and iron combs, and it was a resounding success, particularly because it emphasized the health of the women who used it2.

Beyond her business acumen, Madam Walker was also known for her philanthropy and activism. She used her wealth to fund scholarships for women at the Tuskegee Institute and made significant donations to the NAACP, the Black YMCA, and other charities. She was also a patron of the arts and used her estate, Villa Lewaro, as a social gathering place for the African American community1.

At the time of her death on May 25, 1919, Madam C. J. Walker was considered the wealthiest African American businesswoman and the wealthiest self-made black woman in America1. Her legacy continues to inspire many as a symbol of entrepreneurship, self-empowerment, and social change.