Sadly, after returning to England, Seacole later declared bankruptcy. Things turned around again when she published a best-selling autobiography called “The Wonderful Adventures of Mrs. Seacole in Many Lands” in 1857. She was also financially rewarded by the Prince of Wales for her heroism during the war. Once the word got out about her work with the soldiers, she was acknowledged with decorations from France, England, and Turkey. She left a legacy with the Royal Family as close confidant.
Mary Seacole passed away in 1881 at age 76. She is buried in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery Kensal Green in London.
She was also listed first on the UK’s 100 Great Black Britons poll in 2004.
Little Known Black History Fact: Mary Seacole was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
