Truth, Sojourner (1797–1883)

Early Years: Life in Slavery

Isabella Baumfree was born in Ulster County, New York, in 1797. Her parents were slaves. Isabella was the second youngest of ten, or perhaps twelve, children. All her older siblings were sold, with two kidnapped, before she was born. Isabella's parents were loving and taught her the habits of honesty, respect, and hard work and the importance of salvation through religion—key qualities that would guide her through life.

Isabella's ties to her parents were, however, shortlived. In 1807 (or perhaps 1808), she was sold to neighbors, who were cruel masters. She was beaten and carried scars for the rest of her life, a constant reminder of the horrors of slavery. After a few months, she was sold to a fisherman and tavern keeper. Isabella carried fish, hoed corn, ran errands, and performed a variety of other chores. The tavern was a colorful place. Isabella learned to curse, drink, and smoke.

In 1810, Isabella was sold to John Dumont. She remained with the Dumont family for 16 years, during which she married, had five children, and developed the character and determination that would make her one of the 19th century's most famous African American civil rights activists. Isabella was a hard worker, but her efforts and loyalty were not repaid. Dumont agreed to free Isabella in 1826, but when the date arrived, he reneged. Isabella escaped to the home of Isaac and Maria Van Wagenen, Dutch abolitionists.

The Van Wagenens welcomed Isabella. When Dumont came to retrieve his property, the Van Wagenens struck a bargain. They would pay Dumont twenty dollars for a year of Isabella's services and five dollars for her baby. Dumont accepted. Isabella was semi-free.

The Van Wagenens treated Isabella like a member of the family. They supported her decision to embrace religion and become a Methodist. Isabella, returning to the teachings of her parents, eschewed drinking, swearing, and other forms of vice. Isabella was so grateful that she changed her name to Isabella Van Wagenen. When she was legally manumitted in 1827—mandated by a New York law emancipating all slaves born after 1799—she was ready to move on. God would be at her side as she faced the trials and tribulations of life as a free Black woman—a path that led to the making of Sojourner Truth.

Beyond Slavery: The Making of Sojourner Truth

In September 1828, Isabella moved to New York City where she lived, during the next 4 years, working as a house servant for James Latourette and his family. The Latourettes were zealot-Methodists who held open meetings in their home. The Latourettes and their visitors discussed the Bible, as well as social and political issues. These meetings fascinated Isabella and provided an opportunity to freely interact with White Christians, participating in debates and delivering informal sermons. In short, Isabella Van Wagenen was a budding preacher.

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