Booker T Washington Chapter Summary

Chapter One Although not officially recorded, Booker T Washington was born in Franklin County, Virginia either in 1858 or 1859. He is unsure of the exact date, but does know that he was born near a crossroads post-office called Hale’s Ford. Born a slave, Booker describes his surroundings as miserable, desolate and discouraging, even though his owner was not too cruel. He had no record of his ancestry or name because he did not know his father. His mother worked as the plantation cook and he helped. He was in charge of the sweet potatoes; he often stole a few when he could. He had no schooling or education. The information the slaves received usually came from the slave that went to the post office to retrieve the mail. The slave would linger around as long as he could, listening to people’s conversations. The biggest news he got was from listening to his mother pray that Lincoln and
Booker and his family went to West Virginia where his step father had already gotten them jobs and a place to live. After begging, his mother finally bought him a book. It was a spelling book that would help him to read and write. Later on a young colored boy came to town who knew how to read and write. The young boy offered to teach a class. Unfortunately, Booker’s work schedule would interfere with the time the class would be taught. His work end and school started at the same time, making Booker often late for school. Eventually Booker would speed the hands on the clock causing him to get off work early. Before long, Booker’s boss locked the face of the clock. Whenever Booker would run into a problem his mother would find a way to save the day. Booker received special attention. Booker imagined the feelings of a white boy who had no limits; he was envious because he had to struggle to get an