Elizabeth Hamer (c.1824–1913) and Henry Hamer (c.1816–1899)
Life in Kentucky
Elizabeth and Henry Hamer were enslaved in Kentucky. They both worked in the house and businesses of Henry Bruce, Jr. They were trusted by their enslaver.
A Journey to Freedom
In August 1856, Elizabeth and Henry escaped from slavery. They crossed the Ohio River from Covington, Kentucky, to Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati was known for helping people escape slavery. Even though the journey was dangerous, they made it safely to Windsor, Ontario, after a few weeks. In March 1857, Elizabeth had their son Charles in Canada. Their escape was motivated by wanting a better life for their family.
Life in Royal Oak Township
By 1860, Elizabeth and Henry were living in Royal Oak Township, which is now the City of Royal Oak. They worked hard and saved enough money to buy five acres of land. Henry worked on farms, and Elizabeth took care of the house and helped deliver babies as a midwife. They were loved by their community. Today, some of their descendants still live on part of the land they bought in Royal Oak.
Their Legacy
Elizabeth and Henry Hamer's journey from slavery to freedom shows their strength and determination to build a better life. Their story reminds us of the bravery it took for African Americans to escape slavery and start new lives.
Interested in learning more? Please visit the Royal Oak Historical Society Museum, 1411 W Webster, to see to read letters from the Hamer’s former slaveholders and to see photos of the Hamer, Finch, and Starr families in the museum's photo database.