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MURFREESBORO – The Town of Murfreesboro has designated a specific day next year to celebrate the first African American woman novelist who once lived in the town.

Mayor Hal Thomas read the proclamation for “Hannah Crafts Day” during their town council meeting held on Nov. 19.

Hannah Crafts was an enslaved woman who lived in Murfreesboro from 1852 through 1857, residing primarily at the Wheeler House. She was literate, and during her time here she was exposed to novels and literature from students at the nearby Chowan Baptist Female Institute (now Chowan University).

When she fled from her bondage in 1857, she carried a draft of her partially-written novel, “The Bondwoman’s Narrative.”

Historians, including Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr., have authenticated the novel as the first to be written by an African American woman.

To celebrate her contribution to American literary canon as well as her place in the narrative of Murfreesboro’s own history, the town will declare February 15, 2025 as “Hannah Crafts Day.” Mayor Thomas encouraged businesses, schools, and the community to take part in the celebration of Hannah Crafts.

Members of the council expressed their support for the proclamation during their remarks at the end of the meeting.

“I’m glad to see our proclamation for Hannah Crafts Day,” said Craig Dennis. “I think that’s important and a good thing.”

Jay Revelle called it a “pretty big deal” and also said he was pleased about the proclamation.

Berna Stephens, who is also a member of the Hertford County African American History Coalition, shared information about a celebration event the group is sponsoring on February 15 in remembrance of Hannah Crafts.

That celebration will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Murfreesboro.

“All of you are invited,” Stephens said. “I think it would be a great experience for all of us to witness.”

Several members of the Coalition were in the audience during Tuesday’s council meeting to also show their support for the proclamation.

For more information about the event, call 252-319-6168 or email cultivatornc@gmail.com.