Henry County, Virginia (February 6, 1882- July 27, 1975) age 93 yrs

Anne Bethel Spencer, born Annie Bethel Scales Bannister was an African American poet, teacher, civil rights activist, librarian, and gardener. Anne wrote about the struggles of black people to build themselves in America. She worked alongside compatriots like Countee Cullen and Langston Hughes. She was one of the driving forces behind the Harlem Renaissance and New Negro Movements of black literature. Notably, she became the first black Virginian poet. Her work was included in the prestigious Norton Anthology of American Poetry. Besides being a prolific and talented writer, she cared deeply for the welfare of all poor people in America. She worked towards achieving social equality throughout her life.