Dr. Daisy Century discovered her love of performance early, receiving a standing ovation for her third-grade recitation of The Creation. That moment sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling, education, and bringing history to life. She earned a B.A. in Biology from Claflin College, a Master’s in Science Education from the University of South Carolina, and an Ed.D. in Science Education from Temple University. Dr. Century taught for more than twenty years in the Philadelphia School System, where she was recognized as an award-winning science teacher. Known for her engaging teaching style and dedication to students, many former students have returned years later to thank her for the lasting impact she made in their lives. As a historical interpreter, Dr. Century fully embodies the figures she portrays, appearing in period attire and sharing their life stories in powerful, research-based performances that connect audiences emotionally to the past. She joined the American Historical Theatre in 1999 and has performed at venues including the National Archives, Belmont Mansion, Theodore Roosevelt National Historic Site, and numerous schools, libraries, museums, and historic sites. Dr. Century has portrayed influential women such as Bessie Coleman, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Phillis Wheatley, Mary Fields, Cathay Williams, and Madam C. J. Walker. She is also a published author, writing under the pen name Emily Nelson, and has written four books, with more on the way. An accomplished singer and storyteller, she continues to inspire audiences by blending scholarship, creativity, and a deep love of history.
'Ain't I a Woman?' The Times, Tales, and Impact of Sojourner Truth
'Ain't I a Woman?' The Times, Tales, and Impact of Sojourner Truth
Born Isabella Baumfree, the enslaved person from a small town north of New York City changed hands several times, sold by one brutal owner to another just as harsh. Her life included repeated beatings, rapes, and a forced marriage. In 1826, having been promised freedom but then cruelly denied emancipation, she left her current enslavers and found her way to the Van Wageners' home. There, she had an epiphany, became a devout Christian, and renamed herself Sojourner Truth, after which she began her travels as a preacher. In 1850, Sojourner began speaking on women's suffrage, believing the causes of abolition and women's rights to be intertwined and equally important. Ms. Truth's most quoted speech, "Ain't I a Woman?" was delivered at the Ohio Women's Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio. Although there has been much dispute about the words she spoke and the rhythm of her speech, there is no debate about the power and integrity of the speaker or about the impact of the speech and the speaker's life. Truth also helped recruit Black troops during the Civil War for the Union Army, and she worked as a Union nurse.
This event is part of the JES's USA 250 series.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St. Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Monday, May 4, 7:00-8:30PM
Admission: $15/person; $25 w/ a guest
*If you do NOT receive an email from info@jeserie.org within 24-48 hours regarding your registration, please check your spam or junk folder. Thank you!
