An Uncommon Woman: The Life of Lydia Hamilton Smith

Lydia Hamilton Smith (1813–1884) was an African American businesswoman in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, who was the longtime housekeeper, life companion, and collaborator of abolitionist congressman Thaddeus Stevens. She served the cause of abolition, managed Stevens's household, acquired property, and crossed racialized social boundaries. Mark Kelley's biography reveals how Smith helped secure the rights of African Americans, sheltered people on the Underground Railroad, managed two households, raised her sons and his nephews, and built a real-estate business.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 21 November 2023
Publisher: Pennsylvania State University Press

Lydia Hamilton Smith, a prominent African American businesswoman, lived in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, from 1813 to 1884. She was the longstanding housekeeper, life companion, and collaborator of the abolitionist congressman Thaddeus Stevens. In his biography, Mark Kelley delves into Smith's remarkable life, showcasing her contributions to the abolition cause, management of Steven's household, acquisition of property, and crossing of racialized social boundaries.

Born a free woman near Gettysburg, Smith began working for Stevens in 1844. Her relationship with Stevens, characterized by fascination and controversy, made her a highly recognizable figure both locally and nationally. The two walked side by side in Lancaster and Washington, DC, as they tirelessly worked to secure the rights of African Americans, shelter people on the Underground Railroad, manage two households, raise her sons and Stevens' nephews, and establish a successful real estate business.

In the final years of Stevens' life, as his declining health threatened to hinder his work, Smith selflessly risked her well-being to ensure his survival. She tirelessly supported him in his efforts to end slavery, impeach Andrew Johnson, and advocate for the ratification of the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments.

An Uncommon Woman is a groundbreaking history that rightfully honors Lydia Hamilton Smith's remarkable life. Every American should learn about her inspiring story, as it sheds light on the significant contributions of African American women during a pivotal period in American history.

Weight: 436g
Dimension: 228 x 153 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780271096759