Susannah Cullen (1762 – February 1796) was an Englishwoman
of Scottish descent, remembered as the wife of Olaudah Equiano, a prominent
African abolitionist, writer, and pioneer in the fight against the
transatlantic slave trade. Born in Fordham, Cambridgeshire, to James and Ann
Cullen, Susannah’s life story intertwines with a pivotal moment in history marked
by cultural exchange, abolitionist activism, and personal resilience.
Early Life and Background
Susannah Cullen was born into humble beginnings in the small
village of Fordham. Her upbringing, though modest, was shaped by the cultural
and social environment of 18th-century England. Her family roots extended to
Scotland, providing a blend of English and Scottish heritage that influenced
her identity.
Meeting Olaudah Equiano
Susannah’s life took a transformative turn in 1789 when she
encountered Olaudah Equiano during his book tour in Cambridgeshire. Equiano was
promoting his groundbreaking autobiography, The Interesting Narrative of the
Life of Olaudah Equiano. This work not only chronicled his harrowing
experiences as a former enslaved African but also served as a powerful call for
the abolition of slavery. Captivated by Equiano’s eloquence and passion,
Susannah became one of the subscribers to the 1790 and 1791 editions of his
book, signaling her alignment with his cause.
A Notable Union
On April 7, 1792, Susannah and Equiano were married at St.
Andrew’s Church in Soham, Cambridgeshire. Their union attracted considerable
attention and was documented in contemporary publications. The General Evening
Post noted the event, describing Equiano as “the champion and advocate for
procuring a suppression of the Slave Trade” and highlighting the public’s
interest in their marriage.
The wedding itself was a significant event, not just as a
personal milestone but also as a public demonstration of cultural
interconnectedness and mutual respect. It underscored the broader narrative of
equality and justice that Equiano championed.
Family Life
Susannah and Equiano’s marriage was marked by the birth of
two daughters. Anna Maria, their first child, was born on October 16, 1793. Two
years later, on April 11, 1795, they welcomed their second daughter, Joanna.
The family’s domestic life in Cambridgeshire was a testament to the resilience
and determination of two individuals navigating a world undergoing profound
social change.
Tragedy and Legacy
Tragically, Susannah’s life was cut short in February 1796
when she passed away at the age of 34. She was laid to rest in Soham, where her
gravestone bore the inscription: “Susannah Vassa, Wife of Gustavus the African,
aged 34 years.” Her death marked a sorrowful chapter in Equiano’s life, yet he
continued his tireless work for abolition until his own passing in 1797.
The couple’s surviving daughter, Joanna Vassa, carried
forward their legacy. Joanna married Henry Bromley, a Congregational minister,
and lived in various parts of England, including Devon, Essex, and Hackney. She
passed away in 1857 and was buried in Abney Park Cemetery. Joanna’s life serves
as a bridge between her parents’ pioneering work and the continued struggle for
equality and justice in subsequent generations.
A Historical Reflection
Susannah Cullen’s marriage to Olaudah Equiano symbolizes a
unique convergence of personal and political narratives. Their union
transcended societal norms of the time, challenging perceptions of race, class,
and cultural boundaries. Susannah’s role, though often overshadowed by Equiano’s
prominence, was integral to the fabric of their shared story.
This marriage also reflects the broader dynamics of the
abolitionist movement in Britain during the late 18th century. Equiano’s
relentless efforts to expose the horrors of slavery and advocate for its
abolition found resonance in Susannah’s support and partnership. Together, they
embodied the interconnected struggles for freedom, dignity, and human rights.
Remembering Susannah Cullen
Today, hearing Susannah Cullen’s story gives a powerful
message about not forgetting about women in the historical narrative. Despite
the shortness of her life, she was connected with one of the most progressive
historical eras. Thus, having looked into her life experience, there is a
better chance to assess the human aspect of abolition and personal costs that
people involved in distinct social campaigns made.
The memorial of Susannah’s headstone located in Soham parish
acts as the testimony to the courageous woman’s life and her love and endurance
which were so valued at that time. Equiano’s story and hers are the voices
which provoke thinking about justice, equality, and traceability of a person’s
life until now.
 was an Englishwoman of Scottish descent, remembered as the wife of Olaudah Equiano, a prominent African abolitionist, writer, and pioneer in the fight against the transatlantic slave trade.)
