Jane Minor

King cholera poster 1849

Jane Minor (also known as Gensey Snow), born in 1792, was an African-American healer and emancipator who gained her freedom from slavery in 1825 and went on to free other slaves. Her life and work are significant in the history of African-American and medical history in the United States.

Early Life

Jane Minor was born into slavery in 1792 in Virginia. Little is known about her early life, including the identity of her parents or the conditions of her enslavement. What is known is that she developed an interest in healing and traditional medicine from a young age.

Career and Emancipation

Throughout her life, Minor became well-known for her skills in traditional healing and herbal medicine. She utilized her knowledge of plants and natural remedies to treat illnesses and injuries among both the enslaved and free populations. Her reputation as a healer grew, and she became a respected figure in her community.

In 1825, Minor was granted her freedom by her enslaver, possibly due to her contributions as a healer. Following her emancipation, she did not leave Virginia but chose to remain and continue her work. Notably, she used her skills and earnings to purchase the freedom of at least sixteen other slaves, dedicating her life to the fight against slavery and the care of her community.

Legacy

Jane Minor's legacy is a testament to the resilience and compassion of an individual who, despite being born into the harshest conditions of slavery, used her skills and knowledge to improve the lives of those around her and fight for freedom. Her story is a significant but often overlooked part of African-American and medical history, highlighting the contributions of African-American women to healthcare and social justice.

Her life and work also shed light on the importance of traditional medicine and the role of healers in African-American communities during the 19th century. Jane Minor's achievements are a reminder of the impact one person can have on the lives of many, challenging the institution of slavery and advocating for human rights and dignity.

See Also

• African-American history
• History of slavery in the United States
• Traditional medicine
• Women in medicine