The task of compiling a history can be a daunting one.  A good historian is one who is careful to examine all available resources, both primary sources and secondary sources.   It is easy to become discouraged, though, when little material evidence remains with which a historian can properly document the life of an individual from the past.

This task becomes even more difficult when researching someone who was not born to a position of privilege.  After all, the wealthy tend to be well educated and to leave behind a more complete record of their lives: items range from journals and diaries, to household accounts and inventories, to silhouettes and portraits. 

Sometimes there is very little documentation to be found related to persons born into the lower socio-economic classes, especially to persons born into slavery.
Such is the case with the early years of Mathilde (later spelled Matilda) Taylor Beasley.  Fortunately, however, this important figure in Savannah history made many contributions in her adult life—despite her humble beginnings—and consequently there remains enough resource material with which to tell a story.

Matilda Taylor Beasley was named a Georgia Woman of Achievement in 2004 by Georgia Women of Achievement, a private, not-for-profit organization headquartered in Atlanta.  The ceremony was held at Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia on March 11, 2004.  In 2005, the Georgia Historical Society names “Mother” Matilda Beasley its Georgia Heritage Celebration Honoree.

Using the Georgia Heritage Curriculum

This curriculum module is developed for teachers of students at all age levels. It contains biographical information about the subject and historical information about the times in which that subject lived that will help form a background for study. The narrative is punctuated by Classroom Suggestions—that is, teaching tips and suggestions for activities related to the subject and opportunities for further investigation.

Click on the links above and below to move through the curriculum sub-pages. 

The Georgia Historical Society’s collections have been the basis for research, but other collections and sources have also been consulted. The volunteers of the Junior League of Savannah have played a major role in the creation of this curriculum. Chaired by Gail Rountree, the committee consisted of Elizabeth Sams, Janet Steffen, and Stephanie Warren. The tireless work and cheerful attitude of these women during the course of their work have made this service possible.