Stitch by Stitch: Elizabeth Hobbs Keckly Sews Her Way to Freedom

An awe-inspiring African American woman! A talented seamstress, born a slave, bought freedom for herself and her son.



Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley was born in 1818, enslaved to a Virginian plantation owner. As a teenager, Lizzie was sent to work as the only slave on a small plantation, where the work was endless, and the masters treated her with unspeakable cruelty. A new master, learning Lizzie could sew, sent her to work for a tailor, who paid the master, not Lizzie, for Lizzie’s work. The beautiful gowns that Lizzie created were displayed in the tailor’s window and soon attracted the attention of the wealthiest women in Virginia. Among them was Mrs. Jefferson Davis who also introduced Lizzy to Mary Todd Lincoln. Though Lizzie first had to borrow money from her wealthy patrons to buy her freedom, once she was free, she was able to earn money of her own and pay them all back.



Connie Morrison writes with straightforward honesty and clarity. This inspiring story about an unsung hero is beautifully illustrated with digital collage by Elizabeth Zunon.