Cynthia Hesdra, an African American woman born in Tappan, New York, was enslaved early in her life and after gaining her freedom became a successful entrepreneur, land owner, and Underground Railroad conductor. She lived in the village of Nyack, New York, during the mid-to-late nineteenth century, acquired wealth through a thriving laundry trade, and purchased a number of properties in both New York City and Nyack. She and her husband Edward opened their house to countless fugitive slaves making their journey north along the Hudson River, reflecting her personal fortitude, entrepreneurial vision, and compassionate commitment to freedom.