Yarrow Mamout: The Story of a Muslim Fulani Enslaved in America.

Yarrow Mamout (circa 1736 – January 19, 1823) was a formerly enslaved African who became a successful entrepreneur and property owner in Georgetown, Washington, D.C. A learned Fulani Muslim, he gained his freedom in 1796 after enduring 44 years of enslavement. Mamout’s life was captured in two famous portraits—one painted by James Alexander Simpson and another by Charles Willson Peale, the latter of which is housed in the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Born in West Africa around 1736, Mamout’s original name was likely Mamadou Yarrow, though he became widely known as Yarrow Mamout after the name appeared in the diary of Peale, his portrait artist. He was captured and sold into slavery in 1752, when he was taken aboard the slave ship Elijah from Guinea to Annapolis, Maryland. A member of the Fulani ethnic group, Mamout spoke the Fula language, was literate in Arabic, and had some knowledge of English. It is believed that he came from a well-educated and affluent Muslim family in Africa, which likely contributed to his intellectual capabilities and resilience throughout his life.

Even though Christianity was the dominant faith in the United States at the time, Mamout maintained a strong commitment to Islam, which was noted and admired by those who knew him. His obituary emphasized his dedication to his faith, noting that he was buried in a part of his garden where he regularly prayed. This devotion to his Muslim beliefs stood as a testament to his identity and resilience, making him an extraordinary figure among the enslaved.

Yarrow Mamout’s legacy extends through his family as well. His son, Aquilla, settled in Pleasant Valley, Maryland, where he lived with his wife, Polly, a midwife. A neighborhood in the area was named “Yarrowsburg” in honor of Polly, ensuring that the Mamout name endured in the region. Yarrow Mamout’s life and legacy, preserved in both his portrait and his family’s contributions, continue to captivate and inspire today. Through these enduring symbols of his achievements, Mamout stands as a powerful figure whose story transcends generations.