I am a woman who came from the cotton fields of the South. From there I was promoted to the washtub. From there I was promoted to the cook kitchen. And from there I promoted myself into the business of manufacturing hair goods and preparations....I have built my own factory on my own ground.

I got my start by giving myself a start.

I am not ashamed of my past. I am not ashamed of my humble beginning.

You might say that I was the first and caused others to awaken to the sense of their duty in helping deserving causes for the benefit of the race.

There would be no hair growing business today had I not started it.

I had to make my own living and my own opportunity. But I made it! Don't sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.

Perseverance is my motto.