Sandy Cornish facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sandy Cornish
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Sculpture of Cornish in Mallory Square
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| Born | 1793 |
| Died | 1869 (aged 75–76) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Farmer, civic leader, former slave |
| Spouse(s) | Lillah Cornish |
Sandy Cornish (1793–1869) was an amazing African American man. He was a farmer, a business owner, and a community leader in Key West, Florida. Sandy was born into slavery, but he bought his own freedom. To make sure he would never be forced back into slavery, he bravely injured himself in front of many people.
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Sandy's Journey to Freedom
Sandy Cornish was born into slavery in Maryland in 1793. When he was older, in 1839, his owner allowed him to work on a railroad project. This project was in Port Leon, which is in the Panhandle part of Florida.
Earning His Freedom
Working on the railroad was a big chance for Sandy. He was able to earn his own money. After nine years of hard work, he saved enough money to buy his freedom. He also bought the freedom of his wife, Lillah. This was a huge step for them!
A Brave Act to Stay Free
Sadly, the important papers that proved Sandy and Lillah were free were lost in a fire. Because he didn't have proof, slave traders tried to capture him again. But Sandy managed to escape!
The very next day, Sandy gathered a crowd of people in Port Leon. He told everyone loudly that he had already bought his freedom once. He declared he would never go back to being a slave. Then, he bravely injured himself. He did this to make sure no one would want to force him back into slavery. His friends helped him get home, and he eventually got better.
Life in Key West
Around 1850, Sandy and Lillah moved to Key West. They bought a farm in an area that is now near Truman Avenue and Simonton Street.
A Successful Farmer
Sandy became very successful by selling fresh vegetables and fruits to people in Key West. He worked hard and became one of the wealthiest people in the city.
Community Leader
Sandy Cornish was also a very important leader in the local Black community. He helped start the Cornish Chapel of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Today, this church is known as the Cornish Memorial AME Zion church and chapel. It is still standing at 702 Whitehead Street.
Remembering Sandy Cornish
Sandy Cornish passed away in 1869 when he was 76 years old. He was buried in the Key West Cemetery. For a long time, no one knew exactly where his grave was.
In 2014, the cemetery and the Historic Florida Keys Foundation placed a special plaque to honor him. People at the ceremony spoke about Sandy's life. They said his story was a great example of human freedom. City Commissioner Clayton Lopez said that Sandy's actions showed he would not accept a life chosen for him by others. He called Sandy a "legend" who still inspires people to seek dignity today.
Honoring His Legacy
A special sculpture of Sandy Cornish is part of the Mallory Square Sculpture Garden. This garden honors people who made a big difference in Key West.
