Midwife Mattie Mayes, born in the 1850s on a Georgia plantation, emerged from the brutal confines of enslavement as a healer whose skill and steadiness became indispensable to her community. Like many enslaved women trained in birthing by elder midwives, she learned to read the signs of labor, soothe pain with herbs gathered from the woods, and rely on prayer when supplies were scarce and conditions harsh. After Emancipation, she carried this knowledge into Reconstruction-era Georgia, traveling by foot along dusty roads to attend births for Black families who had little or no access to formal medical care. Known for her gentle hands and unwavering composure, Mattie guided countless mothers safely through childbirth, offering not only midwifery expertise but also postpartum care, comfort, and counsel during a time of profound uncertainty. Her life reflects the enduring legacy of Black midwives whose work sustained generations despite the hardships of slavery, poverty, and segregation.

A spacious and trendy tote bag to help you carry around everything that matters.

• 100% polyester
• Bag size: 15″ × 15″ (39 × 39 cm)
• Capacity: 2.6 US gal (10 l)
• Maximum weight limit: 44lbs (20 kg)
• Dual handles made from 100% natural cotton bull denim
• Handle length: 26″ (67 cm), width 1″ (2.5 cm)
• The handles can slightly differ depending on the fulfillment location

This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!