Madam C. J. Walker
Madam C. J. Walker
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Travels and Expansion Geography

This timeline maps the geographical expansion of Madam Walker's business, tracking her travels and the establishment of key locations.
St. Louis, Missouri: The Foundation
1888-1905
This period saw Sarah move to St. Louis and then starting her career as a Poro Agent, absorbing the fundamentals of hair care sales and product knowledge.
Southern States: Initial Sales and Brand Building
1906-1908
Madam Walker traveled throughout the Southern states, laying the foundation for her business by establishing initial customers and recruiting agents.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: First Business Hub
1908
Madam Walker established Lelia College in Pittsburgh, marking a shift towards a formalized business structure and training center.
Indianapolis, Indiana: National Headquarters
1910
Moving the headquarters to Indianapolis allowed Madam Walker to centralize production, distribution, and training, driving nationwide growth.
Expansion to the East Coast and Beyond
1913-1919
Madam Walker expanded her reach to major cities along the East Coast, establishing a presence in New York City and other key markets. Her business also expanded to the Caribbean and potentially other international locations.