-The world knew her as "Aunt Jemima," but her given name was Nancy Green and she was a true American success story. Born a slave in 1834 Montgomery County, KY, she became a wealthy superstar in the advertising world, as its first living trademark.
While in Kentucky, Green was employed by Charles Walker, then an attorney and later a distinguished Circuit Judge. She moved with the family to Chicago just after the Great Fire in 1872.Walker heard that a friend was looking for a model for the Aunt Jemima character, and he suggested Green who, by that time, had worked for the family for many years. She was instantly recognized with the characteristics the guy was looking for... great charisma, humor, and a fantastic cook.Green was 56-yrs old when she was selected as spokesperson for the new ready-mixed, self-rising pancake flour and syrup and made her public debut in 1893 at the World’s Fair in Chicago. She demonstrated the pancake mix while serving up thousands of pancakes... and became an immediate star. She was a wonderful storyteller, her personality was warm and appealing, and her showmanship was exceptional. Her exhibition booth drew so many people that special security personnel were assigned to keep the crowds moving.Nancy Green was signed to a lifetime contract, traveled on promotional tours all over the country, and was extremely well paid. Her financial freedom and stature as a national spokesperson enabled her to become a philanthropist, a leading advocate against poverty, and a fighter for equal rights.
She maintained her job until her death in 1923, at age 89, after becoming one of America’s first black millionaires.
I submit that the Quaker Oats Co. is more at fault than any one group for the demise of Ms. Green's legacy. Her ancestors are appalled at what has happened to Aunt Jemima.
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