Black & Women's History: Mary Ellen Pleasant (1812'ish-1904)

Entrepreneur, Freer of Slaves, and Voodoo Queen of San Francisco

Much of this amazing woman's history has been blemished due to an organized smear campaign in the late 1800s. Some say she practiced voodoo, stole babies, and killed those who were in her way.  None of these accusations can be confirmed.  After many years of digging, researchers found that the following facts could not be erased so easily. 

Vital to the Underground Railroad

Whether or not Mary Ellen Pleasant was born a slave – whose father was a plantation owner – or if she was born free, doesn't really matter.  Historical records do confirm, however, that she was vital to the Underground Railroad.  She also became a successful businessperson in a time when women didn't have many rights if any. 

Early in her life, Mary Ellen married James W. Smith, an abolitionist who introduced her to saving slaves by smuggling them to Canada.  She and her husband saved hundreds and continued doing so even after his death.  Eventually she needed to escape and headed toward California.  In doing so, she met Thomas Bell who became her business partner.  They invested in several commodities and both made millions.   She purchased and ran a boarding home and numerous other businesses. 

The Woman With all the Secrets

Mary Ellen continued smuggling slaves and relocated them to San Francisco where she placed them in some of the finest households.  Most sources agree that she trained her female refugees to be wives and mistresses of wealthy gentlemen.  With all she aided, she had quite a grip on the community; she knew all their secrets. 

"The Mother of Human Rights in California"

There is no proof that she blackmailed anyone with these tidbits of knowledge though.  Proof does exist, however, that she fought tirelessly to force change via the legal system.  In 1868, she sued – and won – so blacks could ride the trolley car without harassment (Pleasant v. North Beach & Mission Railway).  She also financed John Brown's rebellion. 

Mary Ellen Pleasant worked to better herself and her community.  She offered slaves and former slaves hope.  She is a true California hero and known as "The Mother of Human Rights in California."   

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