The great city of Baltimore has always had its share of unsung heroes and heroines. Today, we celebrate one such remarkable individual - Susan Taylor King. As a young woman in a time of global conflict, racial segregation, and male-dominated workplaces, King exemplified courage and determination. Her story not only resonates with the spirit of Maryland but also serves as a testament to the countless women who defied societal norms, stepped up, and helped shape the world we live in today.
In 1942, fresh from Frederick Douglass High School, a young Susan Taylor King was a mere 105 pounds but bursting with eagerness. The times were challenging, particularly for Black women seeking employment in Baltimore. Yet, this didn’t deter her. Eastern Aircraft Co. recognized her spirit and employed her as a riveter whose job it was to assemble the supplies and equipment needed for the war effort using metal rivets to fasten together components of airplanes and tanks. It was physically demanding work, but as King aptly put it, “when you’re young nothing is difficult.”
In her day, King was the real-life embodiment of “Rosie the Riveter” – a fictitious character created by the Westinghouse company based on an actual employee as a part of their national campaign to enlist women into the defense industry for the war effort. More than 80 years later, it’s heartwarming to see the state of Maryland honor her immense contribution during World War II. At the Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum in Middle River, amongst a close-knit community celebrating Baltimore-area “Rosies,” King stood as the only surviving member from that era. The red scarves with white polka dots, the Rosie dolls, and the photos pinned to the cotton lapel all sang praises of these remarkable women who stood strong when their country needed them the most.
While many visualize Rosie the Riveter as the iconic denim-clad white woman with flexed biceps, it's essential to remember that over 600,000 Black women, like King, also contributed significantly. They transitioned from primarily domestic roles to fill crucial jobs in various sectors. King’s initial days at Eastern Aircraft, which was unusually integrated for the time, marked her first interaction with white colleagues. "We worked together as an integrated America," King said, emphasizing unity and collective strength.
But beyond her role as a Rosie, King's story is also about her profound influence on her family. To her granddaughter, Lauren Lawrence, she is a living testament to history, setting a standard of determination for future generations. Memories of King’s time, including her identification badge, are treasured keepsakes in their family home, serving as constant reminders of her legacy.
In the broader scope of things, King and her fellow Rosies weren’t just wartime workers; they were trailblazers. Their adaptability, be it translating domestic skills to the assembly lines or fitting into tight spots in airplanes, showcased their resilience. As Debi Wynn, the founder of the local chapter of the American Rosie the Riveter Association, aptly stated, "They paved the way for women today."
And now, as King approaches her centennial, her reflection on her life journey is poignant. Although most of her adult life was devoted to education and counseling, she muses "Now that I’m 99 years old it seems everything I did in 1942 was important.” We couldn’t agree more. Here’s to Susan Taylor King - a true Baltimore gem who continues to inspire us all to step out of our comfort zones and make a difference.
Photo credit: The Baltimore Banner
