Another Lesson In Black History…What Former Slave Used Fashion As A Way To Freedom?

Elizabeth Keckley was born into slavery. Using her skills as a dressmaker, she was able to buy her freedom in 1855.

Keckley’s superior craftsmanship and design skills won her a number of wealthy clients who loaned her money to secure her and her son’s freedom. As a free woman, she moved to Washington, D.C. where she received a reputation for designing the most elegant dresses. This led to her meeting the First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln (the country’s 19th first lady) and soon after she begins designing all of the First Lady’s dresses.

Dress designed by Elizabeth Keckley

Another dress designed by Elizabeth Keckley for Mary Todd Lincoln

Want to know more about Elizabeth Keckley visit here

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