Behind the Scenes: Formerly a Slave, But More Recently Modiste, and Friend to Mrs. Abraham Lincoln

Slavery in America

True Stories of American Slaves

Behind the Scenes

By Elizabeth Keckley

Formerly a slave, but more recently modiste, and friend to Mrs. Abraham Lincoln

Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley (sometimes spelled Keckly; February 1818 - May 1907) was a former slave who became a successful seamstress, civil activist and author in Washington, DC. She was best known as the personal modiste and confidante of Mary Todd Lincoln, the First Lady. Keckley had moved to Washington in 1860 after buying her ...