Educational Website for the Descendants of Sarah Jane Harrison
SARAH JANE HARRISON
Our family's matriarchal history is a testament to the enduring power of strength and resilience. In 19th-century Virginia, Sarah Jane Harrison courageously navigated the challenges of racism and sexism, ultimately preserving her family's legacy.
Sarah Jane Harrison, affectionately known as Jane, was born in 1839 in Brunswick County, Virginia, to Biacca Harrison and John Hawkins. Her mother, Biacca Harrison, passed away in 1840, and her father, John Hawkins, died before she turned two. Jane was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Phebe Harrison, on the family farm in Ante Township of Brunswick County, Virginia.
Sarah Jane Harrison's family lived in southern Virginia, near the Meherrin River, as part of a racially integrated community with Native and African Americans. Her community accepted and supported each other with common goals, despite their many differences and customs.
Sarah was the devoted mother of seven children: John Harrison, James Harrison, Benjamin Harrison, Samuel Harrison, Sarah "Sallie" Harrison-Powell-Ellis-Merritt, and Richard Harrison.
As the matriarch of the Harrison family, Sarah Jane Harrison's life was marked by remarkable strength and perseverance. She confronted the challenges of racial injustice and intolerance with courage and integrity, always choosing a path of righteousness.
Sarah passed away in March 1905 and was interred in the Harrison Family Cemetery, Ante, Brunswick County, Virginia.
