Annie Malone

Annie Minerva Turnbo Malone, entrepreneur, businesswoman and community builder. 

Malone was born in Metropolis, Illinois, on Aug. 9, 1869, to Robert Turnbo and Isabella Cook, former slaves. Her father served in the Union Army during the Civil War.

Despite attending school in Peoria, Illinois, she did not complete high school and instead focused on hairdressing with her sister. Moving to Lovejoy, Illinois, Malone pursued her dream to become a “beauty doctor,” creating her own shampoo and scalp treatment at 20 years old and promoting it through speeches and demonstrations. 

And that was only the beginning.  

By 1902, she developed a hair product to straighten African American women’s hair without damaging it like other products available then. She eventually created an entire line of hair care and beauty products for Black women. 

Her home shampoo business thrived, prompting her move to St. Louis, Missouri, where the city’s economy was booming in preparation for the 1904 World’s Fair. Despite challenges like being denied access to regular distribution channels because she was a Black woman, Malone expanded her business under the name “Poro,” targeting the city’s African American population. 

Her success extended beyond business; she mentored Sarah Breedlove, later known as Madam C.J. Walker and prioritized building community. 

Malone’s achievements included becoming one of the nation’s wealthiest Black women, leading in cosmetics and community. She built a million-dollar factory and beauty school in St. Louis’ “The Ville,” providing jobs and support for Black women’s education. She was a generous philanthropist, supported education and orphanages and served on boards. 

Seeking a fresh start due to a divorce, Malone relocated her business headquarters to Chicago in 1930. She continued to visit and support the city of St. Louis after the move. 

She passed away on May 10, 1957, leaving a legacy of Poro beauty colleges across 30 cities.