Pierre Toussaint

Pierre Toussaint, a former slave, moved to New York from Saint Domingue (modern day Haiti) with his owners in 1787 as they escaped the unrest on the island. Although freed by the family, he continued to help and serve them as long as they lived. He became a hair dresser and was befriended and trusted by many of the leading families of New York. He was famous for his charitable work and in building up the Catholic Church in New York City. He and his wife took in refugees and orphans and never turned away anyone in need. He died a most admired and beloved citizen. In 1996 he was declared "venerable" by Pope John Paul II. An engaging and amazing story of a dignified hero of American history. Part of the American Background Series.