On Wednesday, March 12, the Missouri History Museum sponsored a presentation by Linda Nance, president of the Annie Malone Historical Society, celebrating “The Life and Legacy of Annie Malone.”
Eugene B. Redmond – poet laureate of East St. Louis, emeritus professor of English at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville and founding editor of Drumvoices Review – and Lois Conley, founder and executive director of the Griot Museum were among many on hand to share in the lecture and discussion.
Many were surprised to learn that Madam C.J. Walker (Sarah Breedlove) was employed by and received her training in the hair care industry under the tutelage of Annie Malone. The lecture shared extensive information about the Poro College and its involvement during rescue efforts for the 1927 tornado that severely damaged North St. Louis and the building’s role in the establishment of the Lincoln University Law School.
Annie Malone was a true pioneer in the hair care business and is considered the mother of the black hair care industry. She was dedicated philanthropist contributing much of her wealth to
uplifting her race. She contributed the land and the first $10,000 to establish the St. Louis Colored Orphan’s Home – now the Annie Malone Children & Family Service Center, $25,000 to the establishment of the YMCA, $10,000 toward the establishment of the Maternity Hospital at Barnes Hospital and sponsored the showing of movies at area churches to showcase positive images of African-American people, places and things.
The Annie Malone Historical Society is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Annie Malone Children & Family Service Center.
