Mary Simpson (house servant) facts for kids

Mary Simpson (born around 1752-1758 in Virginia – died March 18, 1836, in New York) was an African-American woman. She claimed to have been a former slave of George Washington. She is often given credit for starting the tradition of celebrating Washington's birthday in New York City.

Biography

Mary Simpson lived in New York City. She worked as a laundress, washing clothes for people. Later, she opened her own bakeshop. Her shop was in the financial district of the city.

Celebrating Washington's Birthday

Mary Simpson loved to celebrate George Washington's birthday. Each year, she would open her bakeshop to local business people. She served them special cakes and a drink called whisky punch. She is famous for creating "Washington's Cake." This was a traditional ginger cake. People said it was a favorite of George Washington himself. Her yearly parties helped start the tradition of celebrating Washington's birthday. Her story was told many times throughout the 1800s.

An old story describes Mary's shop. It was in the basement of her house. She sold milk, butter, and eggs. She also sold cookies, pies, and candies that she made herself. She never forgot Washington's birthday. She wanted her friends to remember it too. For her, it was the most important holiday. She would make a very large "Washington Cake." She also made a lot of punch and hot coffee. These treats were set out on a big table. On the wall, she hung an old picture of Washington. Near it was a small leather trunk. It had the initials "G.W." made with brass nails. Mary said Washington himself gave her the portrait and the trunk.

Early Life and Claims

Mary Simpson said she was once enslaved by George Washington. However, records from Washington's home, Mount Vernon, do not list anyone named "Mary" in 1786. The only "Mary" listed in 1799 was a young girl, only 11 years old.

Mary also claimed she worked in Washington's home in New York City. This was when he was president, from 1789 to 1790. But she is not one of the seven enslaved people known to have worked there. She also said President Washington freed her while he was in New York City. There is no official record of this happening.

Later Life and Legacy

Mary Simpson was a friend of Sojourner Truth. Sojourner Truth was a famous speaker and activist. People described Mary as someone who did good deeds. She often helped others in New York City. Mary Simpson attended St. George's Episcopal Church. She became friends with the Reverend James Milnor there.

Mary Simpson passed away on March 18, 1836. Her obituary in a newspaper called her "Mary Washington." However, New York City public records listed her as "Mary Simpson."