2-835-242 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

African-American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political and social activist Madam C. J. Walker (1867-1919), made her fortune by developing and marketing a line of cosmetics and hair care products for black women through the business she founded, Madam C. J. Walker Manufacturing Company. The company is considered to be the most widely known and financially successful African-American owned business of the early twentieth century. This diploma reads: "The Lelia College" in large black ornate letters in a curve across the top. Beneath it reads "Indianapolis, Indiana/ For teaching Mme. C.J. Walker's Method of Growing Hair." The diploma is decorated with scrolling swirls around the college name and a stylized border around the edge. The paper is yellowed and creased and torn along some of the creases. The diploma is surrounded by a white matting and dark brown wooden frame with a glassed front. On the back of the frame is a white sticker with red and black text. It reads "Enterprising Women: / 250 Years of American Business / National Heritage Museum / BU 3.4-WF Wall Frame No. 3.5.22 / Walker, Madam C. J. (1867-1919) / Lelia College Diploma / A'Lelia Bundles/Walker Family Collection / All venues."