Norfolk, Virginia (c 1823- February 22, 1862) age 39 yrs

Mary Smith Peake was born free. At age 24, she secretly taught enslaved and free Black children and adults to read and write. This was prohibited by law after the Nat Turner Rebellion in 1831. Her first class consisted of 20 students under an oak tree later known as the Emancipation Oak. With the outbreak of the Civil War in April 1861, Peake redoubled her efforts. She taught classes day and night. A tidal wave of enslaved Blacks streamed into Union-occupied Hampton. She became so prominent in just a few months. As a result, the American Missionary Association hired her as the first teacher. She was a key figure in a crucial alliance of Blacks, Northern missionaries, and Union army supporters. They built and operated schools for thousands. Peak died after teaching from her sick bed her last days. Her influence lasted far beyond her final class.