Member-only story

The Story of Oney Judge: George Washington's Runaway Slave

Herman Mitchell

·13.8k Followers· Follow

Published in Taking Liberty: The Story Of Oney Judge George Washington S Runaway Slave

4 min read · 1 month before

232 View Claps

19 Respond

Save

Listen

A Journey of Freedom and Redemption

For over two centuries, the story of Oney Judge remained shrouded in the shadows of history. But now, in a captivating book, the truth of her extraordinary life is finally brought to light.

Taking Liberty: The Story of Oney Judge, George Washington's Runaway Slave

by Ann Rinaldi

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	511 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	276 pages

Born into slavery in Virginia circa 1773, Oney Judge became the personal servant of Martha Washington, First Lady of the United States. But beneath the surface of her subservient demeanor, a flame of resistance burned within her. On May 21, 1796, with the help of a free Black sailor named Jack Scisco, Oney daringly escaped from the President's House in Philadelphia.

From the President's House to New Hampshire

Fleeing for her freedom, Oney Judge embarked on a perilous journey that led her to New Hampshire. There, she found refuge with the Quakers, a religious community known for their anti-slavery beliefs. Adopting the new name Ona Judge, she began a life of relative freedom, albeit far away from her family and loved ones.

Despite the distance, Oney Judge's connection to her past remained unyielding. Letters from her siblings and friends kept her informed of the lives they were forced to endure under slavery. Determined to secure their freedom as well, Oney planned a daring rescue, but her attempts were ultimately thwarted by the harsh realities of the time.

A Legacy of Courage and Resilience

Oney Judge's story is not merely about a slave who escaped to freedom. It is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dared to defy the oppressive institution of slavery. Despite the relentless pursuit and threats she faced, Oney never wavered in her determination to live a life of dignity and freedom.

Her legacy extends beyond her own escape. Oney Judge's courage inspired and empowered other enslaved individuals to seek their own liberation. Her story serves as a reminder of the resilience and resistance that defined the fight for freedom in the face of adversity.

Unveiling the Hidden History

In this captivating book, historians and authors meticulously piece together the fragments of Oney Judge's life, drawing from letters, historical records, and oral traditions. They paint a vivid portrait of a woman who refused to be defined by her circumstances and whose unwavering determination left an indelible mark on American history.

Through the lens of Oney Judge's story, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex and often overlooked experiences of enslaved people. Her journey illuminates the inherent contradictions of a nation founded on the principles of liberty while perpetuating the horrors of slavery.

A Call to Recognition and Remembrance

As we delve into Oney Judge's story, we cannot help but be moved by her resilience and the sacrifices she made in pursuit of freedom. Her legacy challenges us to confront the shadows of our past and to strive for a more just and equitable society.

It is time to give Oney Judge her rightful place in history. Her story deserves to be told and retold, inspiring generations to come. May her courage and unwavering determination continue to guide us toward a future where all are truly free.