MIDWAY, Ga., (WSAV)- She was born into slavery in Liberty County, but that did not stop Susie King Taylor from making a better life for herself and others. Tuesday, the Georgia Historical Society dedicated a marker in honor of the educator, nurse, and author.
Dozen gathered to commemorate the life and legacy of Susie King Taylor at the unveiling of her historical marker. Taylor was born to enslaved parents but eventually went on to escape slavery herself.
Michael Thurmond the keynote speaker at the ceremony said this marker helps shed a light on an important person in history.
“She represents black womanhood in a way that we’ve not yet fully appreciated. She is a preeminent figure in American history,“ Thurmond said.
One thing he said is notable about Taylor is that she was taught how to read in secret and went on to become an educator. Teaching runaway slaves in Savannah and Midway.
Hermina Glass-Hill said knowing Taylor taught runaway slaves is important to her because of her ancestry.
“Her influencing slaves after her who were under her tutoring, they taught their children how to read, and their children. Now, here we are, here I am a descendant of enslaved individuals with a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree having gone to graduate school. Education is the turning point,“ Glass-Hill explained.
And Glass-Hill said the plaque is more than just a marker. It’s a chance to finally acknowledge a person who meant so much to many but didn’t get the recognition while she was alive.
“She died with nobody knowing who she was in a hospital and to have this recognition is so meaningful to us,“ Glass-Hill said.
Glass-Hill added there will be a conference honoring Susie King Taylor later this year.