Mother Mathilda Beasley historic marker

Who dared to educate enslaved children in a time when it was forbidden? Right here, at the Mother Mathilda Beasley historic marker, we uncover the story of a courageous woman who defied the law and dedicated her life to serving others. Mother Mathilda Beasley, born Mathilda Taylor in 1832, became a beacon of hope for African American children in Savannah. Before the Civil War, in a time when educating enslaved people was illegal, Mathilda secretly taught children in her home. She risked fines and whippings, driven by her unwavering belief in the power of education. Mother Mathilda Beasley’s dedication extended beyond the classroom. She married Abraham Beasley, a successful businessman. After his death, she used her inheritance to further her philanthropic endeavors. She became a Franciscan nun, the first African American nun in Georgia. Mother Mathilda Beasley then established the St. Francis Home for Colored Orphans, one of the first orphanages for African American girls in the United States. She also founded the Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, a group of African American nuns. Mother Mathilda Beasley’s legacy lives on. She was posthumously inducted into the Georgia Women of Achievement hall of fame. This historic marker, placed at her former home, serves as a testament to her unwavering spirit. She tirelessly championed education and tirelessly cared for the most vulnerable members of society. Mother Mathilda Beasley’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make.