Shanna Ward
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Shanna Ward

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Shanna Ward is an author, family historian, and passionate advocate for preserving Black history and economic empowerment. A fifth-generation descendant of abolitionist John T. Ward, she has dedicated her life to uncovering and amplifying the voices of unsung heroes in Black history. From an early age, Shanna was captivated by fragments of her family’s legacy—whispers of an ancestor who risked everything for freedom. That curiosity ignited a relentless pursuit to unearth, reclaim, and honor a name history nearly erased. Through exhaustive research, archival deep-dives, and oral histories, she discovered the remarkable story of John T. Ward—a conductor on the Underground Railroad, a Civil War military supplier, and the founder of America’s oldest Black-owned business still in operation today. John T. Ward was more than just a freedom fighter—he was also deeply engaged in anti-slavery politics, advocating for Black liberation through political action. As an active participant in the Colored Conventions Movement, Ward joined other prominent Black leaders in demanding civil rights, economic opportunities, and education for freed Black Americans. His influence extended beyond secret escape routes; he was a strategist, an organizer, and a leader in the fight for racial justice. In her powerful debut book, The Bequest of John T. Ward, Shanna intricately weaves together the resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering determination of her ancestor, offering readers a front-row seat to one of history’s most compelling untold stories. With vivid storytelling and rich historical detail, she brings John T. Ward’s legacy to life, challenging readers to reflect on their own history and the importance of economic independence. Beyond her work as a historian, Shanna is a fierce advocate for Black economic empowerment, championing group economics, legacy-building, and historical reclamation. She believes that understanding our past is the key to shaping our future, and she calls on readers to honor those who came before us, build for those who come after us, and reclaim the history that is rightfully ours.
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  • The Bequest of John T. Ward cover art

    • The Bequest of John T. Ward

    • Uncovering a Hidden Legacy in Black American History, Exploring Stories of Antebellum Resistance
    • Written by: Shanna Ward
    • Narrated by: Wendy Greer
    • Length: 18 hrs and 12 mins
    • Release date: 2026-02-05
    • Language: English
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