Part 1: The Legacy of Annie Malone
Many people recognize the name Annie Malone from the historic St. Louis May Day parade. Yet, her story goes much deeper than floats and marching bands. Annie M. Turnbo Pope Malone built a beauty empire from the ground up and used her wealth to transform her community. We want to share the incredible history behind the Annie Malone Children and Family Services Center, starting with the visionary woman who made it all possible.
A Pioneer in Beauty and Business
Long before modern cosmetics took over store shelves, Malone saw a need. She created specialized hair and skin products for African American women. But she did not stop at selling face creams and hair care items. She established Poro College to teach others her business model.
Through this system, she trained thousands of women to become sales agents. This gave them a rare chance to achieve financial independence and build their own careers. Malone understood that true beauty included dignity, self-care, and economic empowerment.
A Heart for the Community
Her success in business gave her the means to pursue her true passion: helping others. Malone dedicated her time, energy, and resources to the St. Louis Colored Orphans’ Home. The community first opened this home in 1888, and Malone stepped up to serve as the president of its board of directors from 1919 to 1943. She poured her heart into making sure vulnerable children had a safe place to grow.
Building a Permanent Home
In 1922, Malone made a massive move to secure the organization’s future. She donated land valued at $10,000 in the historic Ville neighborhood. She also led the charge to raise the rest of the construction costs. Because of her efforts, the organization moved into a permanent facility at 2612 Goode Avenue.
To honor her unmatched loyalty and financial support, the city later renamed the street Annie Malone Drive. By 1946, the facility itself became the Annie Malone Children’s Home.
A Legacy That Lives On
Today, that original orphanage has grown into a massive support system. The Annie Malone Children and Family Services Center now offers crisis care, therapeutic programs, and family resources. Malone proved that one person’s dedication can create a safety net that lasts for generations. You can still see her profound impact in every child the center helps today.
Rebuilding for the Future: The Capital Campaign
While the programs inside the walls of Annie Malone are thriving, the walls themselves need urgent attention. The historic facility requires significant upgrades to continue providing safe and effective services. Keisha Lee has been a vocal advocate for these renovations, launching a comprehensive capital campaign to modernize the infrastructure…