​The Delaware Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history, genealogy, and multiculturalism of people of African descent.

The State of Delaware has a rich African-American heritage.

 22 Aug 2026
10:30 AM in-person
10:45 AM - hybrid
Brandywine Library - Hybrid 
Washerwomen and the Atlanta Washerwomen Strike of 1881

M. Patricia Johnson, Vice President of History, DEAAHGS
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Description:  In the United States, from slavery to the 19th century and beyond, Washerwoman was one of the most common occupations for African American women.  After emancipation many freedwomen continued in this line of work to support themselves and their families. Due to racial barriers, misogyny, lack of education, and even Jim Crow laws, there still remained few employment opportunities for many African American women outside of washerwoman. This presentation will discuss the history of washerwomen, the plight of African American washerwomen, and the Atlanta Washerwomen Strike of 1881: its causes, formation, backlash, and aftermath.
Email [email protected] for a Zoom link by Friday, 21 Aug

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See link for ongoing event details  mycchc.org/calendar-events/