• Collage of images, including Maggie Walker, her home, and the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank

    Maggie L Walker

    National Historic Site Virginia

Determined Spirit

Maggie Walker devoted her life to civil rights advancement, economic empowerment, and educational opportunities for Jim Crow-era African Americans and women. As a bank president, newspaper editor, and fraternal leader, Walker served as an inspiration of pride and progress. Today, Walker’s home is preserved as a tribute to her enduring legacy of vision, courage, and determination.

Did You Know?

The Van Lew Mansion in Richmond, Virginia

In 1864, Maggie Walker was born in the Richmond, Virginia home of Elizabeth Van Lew, a staunch abolitionist and famous spy for the North.  Maggie’s mother Elizabeth worked for Van Lew as a housekeeper.