Sara Lou Harris Carter facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Sara Lou Harris Carter
Sara Lou Harris Carter, from a 1968 publication of the US Department of State
Born	July 4, 1923 Wilkesboro, North Carolina
Died	December 16, 2016
Spouse(s)	John Carter

Sara Lou Harris Carter (born July 4, 1923 – died December 16, 2016) was an amazing African-American woman. She was a trailblazer in modeling, and also worked as an entertainer, teacher, and someone who helped others.

Early Life and Breaking Barriers

Sara Lou Harris Carter was born in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, on July 4, 1923. Her father was a house painter, and her mother worked in a cotton mill.

A Pioneer in Modeling

In the 1940s, Sara Lou Harris became the first African American model to be featured in a national poster campaign. This was a huge step forward! She also made history by being the first African-American model in the New York buyers' fashion show. This helped change how black women models were seen, from just servants to glamorous figures.

Education and Beyond

Sara Lou Harris Carter graduated from Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina, in 1943. She earned a degree in education. After college, she taught third grade in North Carolina.

Studying in New York

She continued her studies at Columbia University in New York. While working on her master's degree, she supported herself by modeling. She also worked as an actress, dancer, and did jobs in radio and television.

Life as a Diplomat's Wife

Sara Lou Harris Carter was known for her elegance and charm. She became the first African American "châtelaine" of an embassy. A châtelaine is like the main lady of a large house, in this case, an embassy. This happened when her husband, John Carter of Guyana, became an ambassador.

An Ambassador's Lady

Her husband served as an ambassador to the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations. When her husband was honored with a knighthood in 1966, Sara Lou was then able to use the title Lady Sara Carter.