Sylvia Dubois: Fighting for freedom and thriving in independence

Discover the extraordinary journey of Sylvia Dubois, a fearless woman born into bondage who fought directly against oppression, earned her liberty, and carved out her own thriving enterprise as an independent tavern owner in New Jersey.

Resisting oppression and striking for liberty

Born into enslavement in the late 1700s, Sylvia Dubois (c. 1788–1789 to 1888) lived during an era of profound hardship for African Americans. Facing brutal conditions and unrelenting physical abuse, Sylvia made a fateful choice to resist her enslaver. When pushed to the brink, she bravely fought back, physically striking her mistress and demanding her right to exist in dignity. That decisive act of defiance altered the course of her life forever, forcing a path out of enslavement and directly into freedom.

Building Sylvia's tavern and leading in New Jersey

After seizing her freedom, Sylvia Dubois established her home in the Sourland Mountain region of New Jersey. There, she raised her children and built a stable, autonomous life. Sylvia defied all social barriers of the era by opening Sylvia's Tavern, becoming a prosperous and self-reliant businesswoman during a time when entrepreneurial opportunities for Black women were nearly unheard of. Her resilience, sharp mind, and strength earned her lasting respect throughout her community.

Preserving her voice: The Dr. C.W. Larison biography

Toward the close of Sylvia's exceptionally long life, local physician Dr. C.W. Larison interviewed her and meticulously documented her remarkable story in her own words. Published in 1883 as "Silvia Dubois (Now 116 Years Old): A Biography of the Slave Who Whipped Her Mistress and Gained Freedom," this invaluable firsthand narrative stands today as an enduring testament to Sylvia's unwavering spirit and courage in the face of injustice.