Maggie Porter facts for kids
Maggie Porter Cole (1853–1942) was an amazing singer and teacher. She was born into slavery but became free during the American Civil War. Maggie is best known as one of the first members of the famous Fisk Jubilee Singers. She was one of only four people who went on all three of the group's first tours. Maggie was known for her beautiful soprano voice.
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Early Life and Freedom
Maggie Porter was born in Lebanon, Tennessee, in 1853. She was one of three daughters in a family that was enslaved. When the American Civil War began, Maggie's family moved to Nashville, Tennessee. After Union soldiers took control of Nashville, Maggie and her family were freed. This happened after the Emancipation Proclamation was announced, which helped free many enslaved people.
Starting at Fisk University
After gaining her freedom, Maggie went to the Fisk Free Colored School. This school was very important for educating newly freed people. After her schooling, Maggie worked as a teacher in different country schools. Sadly, one of the schools she taught at was destroyed.
In the winter of 1870, something special happened. George White, who directed music at Fisk, asked Maggie to sing the main role in a musical show called "Cantata of Esther" by George Frideric Handel. She did such a great job that she was asked to join a brand new group: the Fisk Jubilee Singers!
Singing with the Jubilee Singers
Maggie Porter traveled with the original Fisk Jubilee Singers on all three of their tours. These tours happened from 1871 to 1878. She sang the lead soprano parts, which means she often sang the highest melodies. Maggie was known for her strong personality and amazing talent. At one point during their first tour in 1871, she was away from the group for three months.
Touring the World
After the first tours ended, Maggie lived in Germany for a while. When she returned to the United States, she joined a new group called the "reorganized Fisk Jubilee Singers." This group included former members of the original group. Later, Maggie and her husband started their own group, also called the Fisk Jubilee Singers. They toured across the U.S., Canada, and Europe throughout the 1880s and into the 1890s.
Later Life and Legacy
Maggie and her husband later moved to Detroit, where they raised their family. They continued to be involved in local music. Maggie returned to Fisk University for a special celebration. It was the 60th anniversary of when the Fisk Jubilee Singers were first formed.
Maggie Porter Cole passed away peacefully in 1942 at the age of 89. Her powerful voice and dedication helped share the beauty of African American spirituals with the world.
