Booker T. Washington: “I cannot remember having slept in a bed until after our family was declared free by the Emancipation Proclamation.”

But taking place at the time it did, and for the reason that it did, no one could ever make me believe that my mother was guilty of thieving.

When freedom came, the slaves were almost as well fitted to begin life anew as the master, except in the matter of book-learning and ownership of property.

When they saw that I was not afraid or ashamed to work, they began to assist with more enthusiasm.

I was supremely happy in the opportunity of being able to assist somebody else.