Description
This mansion drafted in 1918 was designed by an African American architect, Vertner Woodson Tandy, for African-American cosmetics magnate Madame C. J. Walker. Madame Walker was the first African-American woman to become a self-made millionaire. Madam Walker invented a line of African-American hair products, which she promoted by traveling around the country giving lectures followed by demonstrations. She eventually established Madame C.J. Walker Laboratories to manufacture cosmetics and train sales beauticians.
Her lavish home, named Villa Lewaro, was built along the Hudson River north of New York City. She built the home not for herself, but so that "Blacks could see what could be accomplished with hard work and determination."
Source-Dependent Questions
- Madame C.J. Walker was the first African-American woman to become a self-made millionaire and was known for her philanthropic endeavors. Discuss the significance of Madame Walker giving back to her community.
- The plans for this mansion were drawn in 1918. Madam Walker built the home not for herself, but so that "Blacks could see what could be accomplished with hard work and determination." Discuss the significance of this act and statement.
Citation Information
Photo 1: "Madame C. J. Walker." Courtesy of Library of Congress
Photo 2: "Madame C. J. Walker's House (Villa Lewaro). Irvington-on-the-Hudson, New York," ca. 1987. Courtesy of Library of Congress