Ona Judge: Self-Emancipated from the Presidential Mansion

Ona Judge, born into slavery on George Washington's plantation, was trained as a maid for Martha Washington. At 16, she moved with the Washingtons to New York and Philadelphia, separating her from her family. In Philadelphia, she learned about self-emancipation from free black Americans. In 1796, to avoid being given as a wedding gift to Martha's granddaughter, Ona escaped to Portsmouth, NH. Despite the Washingtons' efforts to recapture her, Ona lived freely, marrying Jack Staines and having a daughter. After George Washington's death, Ona lived a long life, sharing her story with abolitionist newspapers, highlighting the contradictions of early American liberty.

What significant event in Ona Judge's life occurred in 1796?

Describe the circumstances that led Ona Judge to claim her freedom.

What was the reaction of the Washingtons when they discovered Ona had claimed her freedom?

What impact did Ona Judge's life have on the understanding of slavery and freedom in America?

How did Ona Judge's actions challenge the narrative of personal liberty in early America?