Anne Spencer was born Annie Bethel Scales Bannister, on February 6, 1882. She showed incredible dedication to education and civil rights throughout her life. When she was 11 years old, her family moved to Lynchburg. This move allowed her to attend what is now called the University of Lynchburg. Back then, this university was famous for offering quality education to all students. Even though she initially struggled with reading, Anne worked hard and eventually became the valedictorian six years later, proving her determination and intelligence.

In 1901, Anne married Edward Spencer, who later became Lynchburg's first parcel postman. They had three children and lived at 1313 Pierce Street, which is now the Anne Spencer House and Garden Museum.

Anne Spencer dedicated herself to improving the lives of Black people in Lynchburg. She actively took part in various civic groups and was one of the founding members of Lynchburg's first NAACP chapter. Her home was a safe haven for travelers who faced discrimination by Jim Crow laws, hosting important figures like Martin Luther King, W. E. B. Du Bois, Langston Hughes, and Thurgood Marshall. 

Anne started her writing journey in 1920 with the publication of her first poem. Over the years, she wrote many poems, with 30 of them being published. Her recognition as a poet grew when she became the first African American woman poet to be featured in the Norton Anthology of Modern Poetry.

In 1924, Anne took on another significant role. She became part of Lynchburg City Schools to establish the first public library for Black citizens at Dunbar High School. To start the library collection, Anne used books from her own library. Throughout her time at Dunbar, Anne frequently supplemented the library collection with books she purchased with personal funds, showing her strong commitment to literacy and education.  In 1942, Anne retired from the library that she so tirelessly worked to grow.  In 1946, the Parent-Teacher Association of Dunbar High School raised money to further expand the school library

For more information on Anne Spencer visit one of the sites below. 

The Anne Spencer House and Garden Museum @ https://www.annespencermuseum.org/

National Women's History Museum @ https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/anne-spencer

Poets.org https://poets.org/poet/anne-spencer