Annie Turnbo Malone, born in 1869, pioneered an African-American haircare empire that amassed assets of $14 million by 1920, likely making her the nation’s first Black female self-made millionaire.
Creating Innovative Hair Products
From humble beginnings in Metropolis, Illinois, Turnbo developed her own line of haircare products for Black women after learning chemistry. She began selling them door-to-door before relocating to St. Louis in 1902.
Despite distribution barriers as an African American entrepreneur, demand for Turnbo’s high-quality hair straightening products soared, especially after displaying them at the 1904 World’s Fair.
Reaching Millionaire Status
Turnbo, who married Aaron Malone in 1914, saw her business explode nationally during World War I. By 1920, she had become a millionaire from the success of her Poro Company beauty brand and philanthropic efforts.
Her Poro College, opened in 1918 to train women, helped drive Poro’s exponential growth. At the height of her influence, Malone supported students at multiple Black colleges and gave millions to charities.
Overcoming Legal and Financial Challenges
In 1927, Malone faced setbacks from her divorce settlement and lawsuits during the Great Depression that caused losses, but she persevered.
She relocated her base to Chicago and, though significantly diminished, maintained assets from her beauty colleges and real estate through the 1950s while continuing her generosity to community causes.
Legacy as a Pioneer
Though overshadowed by contemporaries like Madame C.J. Walker, Malone’s work enriching Black lives through entrepreneurship and education stands the test of time.
From orphaned daughter of ex-slaves to historic executive and philanthropist, Malone’s trailblazing tenacity as America’s first Black female self-made millionaire remains inspiring.
