The year 2025 marks the 220th anniversary of the birth of Mary Seacole, a woman who forever changed the perception of humanitarian work and medical care. Mary Seacole became a symbol of humanity and the fight for equality through her courageous deeds, innovative approach, and unwavering spirit.
Defying racial and gender prejudices
Mary Jane Grant was born on November 23, 1805, in Jamaica. From an early age, she showed an interest in healing and helping others. Learning from her mother, a well-known healer, gave her a foundation in medical knowledge, while her multicultural heritage shaped her into a woman of open-mindedness and courage.
Her father was a Scottish soldier, and her mother was a free Black Jamaican and a skilled ‘doctress’ in traditional medicine who cared for disabled individuals in her boarding house.
In 1836, Mary Grant married Edwin Horatio Seacole, and during their travels to the Bahamas, Haiti, and Cuba, she expanded her knowledge of local remedies and treatments.
After this, Mary Seacole experienced a series of unfortunate events. Her mother's boarding house burned down in 1843 and was turned into a new boarding house called 'New Bundle Hall'. A year later her husband died, then shortly after followed by the death of her mother. She had a period of grief in which she did not move for days.
Once she recovered, she took over the management of her mother's hotel. She gained further experience in nursing and treating patients during a cholera outbreak in 1850 which killed over 30,000 Jamaicans.
She also cared for victims of yellow fever, many of whom were British soldiers.
However, Mary Seacole’s journey was anything but easy. As a woman of color in the 19th century, she faced numerous obstacles. Yet, thanks to her talent and determination, she earned a reputation as a skilled healer.
The Crimean War: A moment of glory
During the Crimean War, Mary Seacole displayed extraordinary bravery and resolve. Although British authorities rejected her offer to join the medical team due to her background, she took matters into her own hands and traveled to the battlefield independently.
In her autobiography Wonderful Adventures of Mrs. Seacole in Many Lands published in 1857, Mary describes her experience in Crimea. How on her way to Crimea, she visited the military hospital in Scutari (Üsküdar area of Istanbul today), delivering supplies. There, she joyfully reunited with soldiers she had previously cared for in Jamaica. According to her account, she also met Florence Nightingale:
A slender figure in a nurse’s uniform; with a pale, gentle, yet determined face, resting lightly on the palm of one white hand, while the other supports the elbow—a pose that gives her face a sharp, inquisitive expression, quite striking.
Mary was often present at the patient dock, feeding and caring for wounded soldiers as they prepared for transport to Scutari. Along with her business partner, Mr. Day, she established the British Hotel in Crimea, located two miles from Balaklava . In addition to selling everything from shoes to tooth powder, Mary rode to the battlefield to deliver special meals and care for the soldiers. Among the troops, she was affectionately known as Mother Seacole.
She remained in Balaklava as long as the troops were there. In 1856, she returned to England penniless, having given away all the earnings she had made.
Her hands-on work on the battlefield—often under fire—earned her immense respect among soldiers. They lovingly called her Mother Seacole, recognizing her invaluable contributions.
This Jamaican woman, with an incredible life story, personal resilience, dedication to her humanitarian calling, and a curious spirit, returned to England in 1856 penniless. She had acquired some debts and had also given away her earnings.
A military festival was held in her honour in 1857 to raise funds to support her as well as her desire to travel to India to nurse wounded soldiers during the Indian Rebellion. Despite the festival being successful, she received very little of the funds raised due to the company producing the festival having financial struggles of their own. She never made it to India.
A Legacy Nearly Forgotten
Mary Seacole spent the last 20 years of her life between London and Jamaica. She passed away from a stroke on May 14, 1881, at the age of 76. By the time of her death, she was a wealthy woman, well established in royal circles. She left most of her estate to her sister in Jamaica. Since Jamaica was part of the British Empire during her lifetime, Mary always considered herself a British citizen.
She was buried at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Kensal Green, London. Her fame and achievements faded along with those who had known her, but in recent times, her legacy has been rediscovered and reinstated into history. In 2004, Mary Seacole was voted the most significant Black Briton in a poll of 100 notable figures. Today, the public once again recognises her for her heroic actions during the Crimean War.
A Timeless Heroine
Mary Seacole is more than a historical figure—she is a symbol of resilience, innovation, and compassion. Her name echoes through the ages, reminding us that courage and humanity know no boundaries.
Mary Seacole’s life story testifies to the power of determination, compassion, and service to others. Despite facing many obstacles, she paved the way for future generations of nurses and healthcare workers, leaving an indelible mark on history. Her legacy continues to inspire and uplift people worldwide.
Let us celebrate not only Mary Seacole’s contributions but also the power of individuals to change the world.