So, You Want to do Laundry Work?

The Crafting Freedom Materials Project

Being a "laundress" today as well as in the past is frequently considered a low-skill job, and this video challenges that perception. It demonstrates the many different kinds of technical and business skills laundry work required in the 19th century. Sally Thomas and thousands of black women earned a living by doing laundry for others throughout the 1800s and into the 20th century. Many laundresses "crafted freedom" for themselves and others by investing in real estate, by purchasing the freedom of family members, and by educating their children.

Click the arrow to view the video in the browser. Right-click or option-click to download the video file. To adjust the audio volume, move the volume slider in the lower right-hand corner of the video player.

Teachers may use and reproduce the material on this website for instructional purposes. View conditions of use for more information.