Harriet Gibbs Marshall was the first Baha’i to pioneer to Haiti (1922-1928). She set up the first Music School to teach African-Descent music in that country. She was able to do so due to her husband Napoleon B. Marshall’s USA military tenure there. Later, she coached Hand of the Cause of God Louis and Louisa on their teaching in Haiti. Mr. Marshall was noted by Mr. Gregory to be a great friend of the Faith.
*The Gregories reported back to her from Haiti: “You (Harriet) are very much loved among them (the Haitians) for the constructive services you have rendered them. “Welcome to Haiti”, said one of the officials upon knowing that I had a letter of introduction from you. The Baha’i seed sown by you is also having effect. So you should be both happy and thankful to the Lord of Might, Baha’u’llah, that you have served the establishment of His Kingdom on earth. Following your advice, we had service at the Bellevue Hotel for a week and had contacts with many prominent people … Mrs. Gregory joins me in Baha’i greetings, best wishes and thanks. …
P.S. you will do well as far as you are able, to keep in touch with the Baha’is. Even if you cannot attend meetings, ask them to send you the publication Baha’i News, so you will be informed about current-happenings in the faith and spiritually what comes from its Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, in the Holy Land. L.G.G.”
Her efforts in Haiti combined education, social activism, historical documentation, and spiritual service, leaving a lasting impact on both the Baha’i community and Haitian society.
Harriet Gibbs Marshall’s Work in Haiti (1922-1928)
- First Baha’i Pioneer to Haiti – Introduced and helped establish the Baha’i Faith in the country.
- Founded Haiti’s First Music School for African-Descent Music – Promoted Black musical heritage and education.
- Co-founded the Jean Joseph Industrial School in Port-au-Prince – Provided vocational training for Haitian youth. This endeavor reflects her commitment to education and offers insights into the educational landscape of Haiti during that period. en.wikipedia.org
- Actively Engaged in Social Welfare Work – Held leadership roles in organizations such as:
- Haitian Brotherhood – Advocated for community development.
- Organization of Haitian Women (Vice President) – Supported women’s empowerment and social initiatives.
- Mentored Louis and Louisa Gregory in Their Baha’i Teaching Efforts in Haiti – Strengthened the country’s emerging Baha’i community.
- Recognized by Haitian Officials for Her Contributions – The Gregorys noted she was deeply respected for her work.
- Advocated for Haitian Autonomy – After returning to the U.S., she and her husband co-founded the Save Haiti Committee, campaigning for the withdrawal of U.S. troops. This activism underscores her engagement with Haiti’s political situation and her support for its sovereignty. en.wikipedia.org
- Authored **The Story of Haiti: From the Discovery of the Island by Christopher Columbus to the Present Day (1930) – Marshall’s book provides a nuanced perspective on Haiti’s cultural and social dynamics during a transformative period in its history. Notable contributions include:
- Comprehensive Historical Account: The book provides an extensive overview of Haiti’s history, covering the period from its discovery by Christopher Columbus up to the early 20th century.
- First Hand Perspective: Drawing from her six-year residence in Haiti, Marshall offers unique insights and observations, enriching the narrative with personal experiences.
- Cultural and Social Insights: Beyond political events, the work delves into Haiti’s cultural and social aspects, providing readers with a holistic understanding of the nation’s heritage.
- Education Contribution: As an educator and advocate for Black culture, Marshall’s publication serves as an important resource for those interested in Haitian history and the broader African diaspora.
**The Story of Haiti: From the Discovery of the Island by Christopher Columbus to the Present Day is available online. You can access the full text through the HathiTrust Digital Library. The book is available in full view from the University of California and the University of Wisconsin – Madison. catalog.hathitrust.org Published 1931
*Louis G. Gregory, letter to Harriet Gibbs Marshall, 29 January 1937, in Washington Conservatory of Music Papers, B.l, F.24, Moorland-Spingarn Research Center, Howard U, Washington, D.C.