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THE NEW HAVEN CLUB
79TH ANNUAL FOUNDER’S DAY
79th Founders’ Day Celebration
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Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth is the national Matriarch of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. Our recognition and knowledge of Sojourner Truth is important to every club member. Sojourner Truth was born Isabella Bomefree (also spelled Baumfree in some narratives) about 1797 at Hurler, Ulster County New York to James and Betsy, who were slaves of Colonel Hardenbergh. Upon his death ownership passed to his son, Charles. Isabella was sold four times and spoke low Dutch until she was about 10 years old, yet never learned to read or write.
Sojourner Truth spoke for women’s rights, abolition, prison reform and addressed the Michigan Legislature on capital punishment. She was known for her famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech and had staunch influential supporters like Susan B. Anthony, Amy Post and William Garrison.
Sojourner Truth died at her home on College Street in Battle Creek, Michigan on November 26, 1883. Her funeral service was attended by over 1,000 people.
In 1948, at the National Convention of the NANBPWC, Inc., it was decided that the highest honor bestowed by the NANBPWC, Inc., would be the Sojourner Truth Award, given to a woman who has exemplified outstanding community service and whose life parallels the life and qualities of Sojourner Truth.
The Woman The Legend
