Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl

Author: Harriet A. Jacobs

Publication date: 1861

Lisandra’s Thoughts:

Happy February, everyone! February has always been one of my favorite months of the new year because it is short yet deeply meaningful. To begin, Valentine's Day falls in February, allowing us to express our love to those who matter most to us, making it my second favorite holiday. Additionally, February is significant because it is Black History Month, providing us with the opportunity to reflect on our ancestors and the many lives that have suffered to create the freedoms and joys we enjoy today.

With that in mind, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs is my favorite novel when it comes to understanding the actual experiences faced by African Americans during slavery. This novel is based on the true story of an enslaved woman who hid from her master for seven years in her grandmother's home. Jacobs changed the names of the characters for privacy reasons, but ultimately, the story is rooted in her own experiences as a slave woman in North Carolina during the 19th century.

The novel chronicles her childhood through to motherhood, revealing the behaviors of the masters and the complex relationships they had with their "property." It includes various stories about other enslaved individuals in the neighborhood, helping us understand what enslaved men and children faced. One lesser-known fact about slavery is that January 1st was considered "Hiring Day." On this day, slaves would spend the holidays with their families, only to be forcibly separated from them the day after New Year's, as they were "hired" by a master who deemed them worthy.

This novel educated me on the hidden and horrifying events that occurred during slavery—information that is often omitted from school curricula. It frustrates me to know that many Americans are unaware of these truths, which is why I am glad to share novels that inform us about real experiences without needing a time machine.

Now, you’re probably wondering what this has to do with fashion. Well, I’m here to inform you that the main attire for enslaved individuals often consisted of a specific fabric called "Linsey Woolsey." This fabric is a type of wool designed to keep the wearer warm in all seasons, is very affordable, and is easy to produce. As a result, it became one of the signature looks for African Americans during slavery because it was provided to them by their masters. It amazes me how, in today's world, we wear this fabric so unapologetically, yet many people have no idea who wore it before us.

Recommendation:

Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs would be a great read for anyone interested in themes of slavery, racism, social inequality, and Black cultural resistance.

Quote from text: "...I have a vivid recollection of the Linsey Woolsey dress given me every winter by Mrs. Flint. How I hated it! It was one of the badges of slavery." (Jacobs 13; ch. 2)