Why Everyone Is Talking About These Black Pioneers (And How to Buyblack Today)
Hey family, it’s Monday, March 9, 2026. If you haven’t felt the energy in the air lately, let me catch you up. We are officially in the midst of a massive, year-long celebration. Why? Because 2026 marks exactly 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week, which we now know and love as Black History Month.
A whole century of intentional commemoration. A century of making sure our stories aren’t erased. But at The Black Wall Streets, we believe that looking back is only half the battle. If we want to truly honor the giants whose shoulders we stand on, we have to make some "Modern Money Moves." We have to take that inspiration and turn it into economic power. That is exactly why the #Buyblack movement is more than a hashtag: it’s a blueprint for our future.
Today, I’m teaming up with Sonny to bring you a special look at some pioneers you might not find in the standard history books, along with some tips on how to carry their torch in 2026.
The Seamstress-Preneurs: Hannah and Eliza Gorman
Back in the 1840s, when the law of the land was literally designed to keep Black people out, Hannah and Eliza Gorman weren't just surviving: they were thriving. These two women were among the first recorded Black residents in Benton County, Oregon.
Think about the grit that takes. They arrived in a place where exclusion laws were in full effect, yet by the 1850s, they were purchasing property. Eliza became legendary for her skills as a seamstress. She didn't just sew clothes; she built a reputation that earned her the respect of the entire community.
The Modern Money Move: Monetize Your Craft
Eliza Gorman was the original "solopreneur." She took a high-demand skill and turned it into land ownership. In 2026, we have tools she couldn't have even dreamed of. If you have a craft: whether it’s designing jewelry and accessories or creating digital content: now is the time to scale.
The move here is to stop treating your talent like a hobby and start treating it like a legacy. When you support Black artisans on blackwallstreets.store, you are literally helping the next Eliza Gorman buy her own piece of the map.
The Philanthropists: Reuben and Mary Jane Shipley
Next up, we have to talk about Reuben and Mary Jane Shipley. These two are the definition of "Black Excellence." Reuben was born into slavery but managed to secure his freedom and head west. He didn't just settle for personal liberty; he became a landowner in Philomath, Oregon.
But here’s the real kicker: Reuben and Mary Jane donated the land that became the Mt. Union Cemetery. They understood that community isn't just about who you live with; it’s about how you take care of your people even after they’re gone. They traded their hard-earned resources for a permanent place for our people in history.
The Modern Money Move: Asset Acquisition and Giving Back
The Shipleys didn't just spend their money; they acquired assets. In 2026, the game is still the same. Whether it's real estate, stocks, or investing in Black-owned businesses, the goal is to own.
But notice they also gave back. True wealth is communal. When you choose to Buyblack, you’re participating in a circular economy. That dollar stays in the community longer, creating jobs and funding dreams. If you’re looking to upgrade your style while supporting the mission, check out our latest hats and caps collection. Every purchase is a vote for our community’s economic health.
The Architect: Dr. Carter G. Woodson
We can’t talk about a century of commemorations without mentioning the man who started the clock. Dr. Carter G. Woodson knew that if a race has no recorded history, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world. He was a scholar, an author, and a visionary who understood that our story is our power.
In 1926, he launched Negro History Week. He didn't wait for permission to celebrate Black greatness. He created the platform himself.
The Modern Money Move: Controlling the Narrative
Woodson’s move was about intellectual property and representation. In 2026, we control the narrative through where we spend our coins. Every time you skip the big-box retailers and head to a marketplace like ours, you’re saying that Black stories and Black products matter.
Want to represent that Woodson-level pride? Toss on one of our baseball or trucker hats. It’s not just fashion; it’s a statement that you know who you are and whose you are.
Why Everyone Is Talking About "Buyblack" Right Now
You might be wondering, "Penny, why is the 'Buyblack' keyword trending so hard this year?" It’s simple: people are tired of performative support. In 2026, we’ve moved past just posting a black square on social media. We want receipts.
The #Buyblack movement is about redirecting the billions of dollars in Black consumer spending power back into our own neighborhoods. It’s about ensuring that the next generation of Black pioneers doesn’t have to fight the same financial battles the Gormans or the Shipleys fought.
When you shop at The Black Wall Streets, you aren't just getting a product; you’re fueling an engine of empowerment. Whether you’re looking for scarves and wraps to level up your spring wardrobe or sunglasses to block out the haters, you’re making a conscious choice to build wealth within the community.
Fashion Meets Foundation
One of the coolest things about our current marketplace is how we blend style with our roots. We’ve been curating items that make you feel as powerful as the pioneers we’re discussing.
Think about it:
- Hair Accessories: From headbands to tiaras, wearing your crown has never looked better.
- Essential Gear: Even something as small as keychains and lanyards can be a daily reminder of your commitment to the movement.
- Travel in Style: Grab one of our cosmetic and toiletry bags for your next trip: it’s about being organized and empowered on the go.
Building Your Own "Black Wall Street"
The original Black Wall Streets weren't just about money; they were about safety, community, and mutual success. In 2026, we are building a digital version of that reality.
When you add items to your wishlist, you’re planning your next move. When you share a link to a Black-owned brand with a friend, you’re acting as a modern-day pioneer. We are the architects of our own economy.
The pioneers of the past did the heavy lifting with far fewer resources. The Gormans bought land in the face of exclusion. The Shipleys bought their freedom and then gave to the community. Dr. Woodson gave us the platform. Now, it’s our turn to take it to the next level.
Final Thoughts for the Week
As we move through this centennial year of Black history commemorations, don’t just be a spectator. Be a participant. Read the stories, learn from the struggle, but most importantly, support the success.
The "Modern Money Move" is simple:
- Research the history.
- Recognize the talent.
- Redirect the funds.
Let's make 2026 the year we truly mastered the art of the #Buyblack lifestyle. Head over to the store, find something that speaks to your soul, and let’s keep building this legacy together.
Stay empowered, stay stylish, and always keep your eyes on the prize. We are the pioneers now. Let’s act like it.
