Celia of Ricos

Happiness is following and learning in great amounts🔊💯
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“When we think of Black Hair history, we often think of Madam C.J. Walker, but I just found out about Pierre Toussaint this year from industry legend, Floyd Kenyatta! And boy is it the most fascinating story! This man was born a full century (101 years) before Madam Walker. Born into slavery in Haiti in 1766, he was brought to the US, as a slave in 1787 and shortly thereafter, was permitted to train as a Hairstylist and earn his own money. It was unusual at the time, but he was also allowed to learn to read and write.

He went on to become one of the most requested Hairdressers with New York’s wealthiest White families. He traveled from one house to the next, as was the custom for the wealthy. He styled their hair, but it was his caring personality that helped him create lasting relationships with his clients. He even spoke with his clients about God, as his (Catholic) faith was paramount in his life.

After his master died (they had previously lost their fortune), it was Pierre who took care of his master’s widow, his sister and the other slaves - all by styling hair! Just prior to the widow’s passing in 1807, she granted Pierre his freedom. 4 years later he purchased the freedom of the woman who would become his wife, as well as many others. He was an extremely charitable man, who became very wealthy. He donated money to help finance the original St. Patrick Cathedral, but once it was built was turned away from attending by an usher, because he was Black. Fortunately, another usher recognized him and sat him in a seat of honor. He and his wife were some of the founders of the first New York Catholic school for Black children. He even trained others to be hairdressers and barbers.

He is the only layperson to be buried in NY City’s 5th Ave. St. Patrick Cathedral with cardinals and archbishops. In 1996, he was declared a ‘Venerable’ and may be moved on to sainthood. Now tell me that’s not an interesting life”!