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Oney Judge, Martha Washington's Slave

Oney Judge was a slave that belonged to President and Lady Washington. This program is funded by the New Jersey Council for the Humanities

2020 marks the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage in America.

A dower slave, owned by the estate of Martha Washington’s first husband, Oney could not expect to be freed by George Washington’s will. When Oney learned that Martha Washington intended to offer her as a wedding present to her granddaughter, and that Oney’s transfer back to the south was imminent, Oney created a plan – one that would label her a fugitive – and carried it out in 1796 by escaping north to New Hampshire.She remained a fugitive for fifty two years.  Patrons will learn more about her life and her experiences.

Reenacted by Alexandra Ford.

Alexandra Ford is thrilled to bring the story of Oney Judge to audiences in the 21st century. Her credits include Delaware Humanities Forum and Storybook Musical Theater. Alex has an AAS degree in Literature, Arts, and Philosophy from Camden County College, and her BFA degree in Theatre Studies from Montclair State University.

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