As Black History Month comes to an end, and as we begin to recognize the contributions of women in history and society, I am reminded of individuals whose accomplishments bridge both celebrations, such as Anna Julia Haywood Cooper (1858–1964). Dr. Cooper was an educator, author, champion of women’s rights, and member of Washington D.C.’s black elite. Anacostia Community Museum organized an exhibition on her in 1981; several images of Cooper are in the Scurlock Studio Records; and the United States Postal Service honored her with a commemorative stamp in 2009. In her most noted publication, A Voice from the South: By a Black Woman of the South, Cooper clearly demonstrated her intellectual contribution to both women’s struggles and civil rights.Click here to view Anacostia Community Museum Archives exhibition records on Anna J. Cooper.
Jennifer Morris
Archivist, Anacostia Community Museum
morrisj@si.edu
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Wonderful post. I did not know much about Anna J. Cooper and your post peaked my interest. She was very accomplished, 4th African American woman to earn her PhD (at the age of 65) and also lived until she was 105! A quote from her appears on the US passport. Amazing individual. Thanks for sharing.
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