MAGGIE LENA WALKER

"First Woman Bank President in the United States"

Maggie Lena Walker was born on July 15, 1867 the daughter of a former slave who worked as a cook. She studied for a master degree from the Virginia Union University.

Maggie Lena Walker is a perfect example of an individual who worked hard to be all that she could be. She started her career as a teacher, and gave unselfishly back to the community. She contributed to many various African American causes; establishing a school and farm for delinquent girls, a community center, and a nursing home

Devoted to the independent order of St. Luke(an African American self-help organization), Maggie Walker taught others how to work hard and save money. Last but not least, she started the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank (now the Consolidated Bank and Trust Company of Richmond) and became the first woman bank president in the United States. Maggie Lena Walker died on December 15, 1934, but her memory lives on in the high school that bears her name and the people who learn about her every day. Her home at 110 1/2 Leigh Street is now a National Landmark.