Mary Perth facts for kids

Mary Perth (born around 1740, died after 1813) was an important African American woman who helped build the new colony of Sierra Leone. She was a successful businesswoman and a leader in her community.

Mary Perth's Journey to Sierra Leone

Mary Perth was one of the many Nova Scotian Settlers. These were people, often formerly enslaved, who had moved to Nova Scotia, Canada, after the American Revolutionary War. In 1792, Mary Perth left Nova Scotia and sailed to Freetown, a new settlement in Sierra Leone, West Africa. This journey was a big step for many people seeking a new life.

A Successful Businesswoman

Life in the new colony was challenging, but Mary Perth quickly became a key figure. In 1793, she became a widow. The very next year, in 1794, she was one of the first six people in Freetown to receive a special permit called a trading license. This license allowed her to officially run a business.

Mary Perth opened an inn, which was like a hotel and restaurant combined. She sold goods in her shop, rented out rooms for people to stay, and served food. She worked closely with the Sierra Leone Company, which was the British company that founded and managed the colony. Through her hard work, Mary Perth became a very successful and wealthy businesswoman in Freetown. She was also an important member of the Methodist congregation, a religious group, showing her strong ties to the community.

Caring for Children and Traveling to England

Mary Perth's skills and trustworthiness were noticed by important people. In 1794, the governor of Sierra Leone, Zachary Macaulay, asked her to take on a special role. She became the housekeeper for the governor's home. Even more importantly, she became the caregiver for 24 African children whom Governor Macaulay was fostering. She also helped with their school.

In 1799, when Governor Macaulay returned to England, Mary Perth went with him. She continued to care for the children, who attended a school called the African Academy in London. After two years, in 1801, Mary Perth returned to Freetown. She immediately went back to managing her successful businesses. Her life shows how strong and determined the early settlers of Freetown were.