Remembering History: Josephine Baker was born Freda Josephine McDonald on June 3, 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri. Living in the slums of St. Louis. Starting from the age of eight Josephine was put to work cleaning houses. Josephine’s street corner dancing attracted attention and at age 15 she was recruited for the St. Louis Chorus Vaudeville Show. During the Harlem Renaissance, Josephine found her way to New York City where she performed in various venues.

Josephine Baker was born Freda Josephine McDonald on June 3, 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri. Living in the slums of St. Louis. Starting from the age of eight Josephine was put to work cleaning houses. Josephine’s street corner dancing attracted attention and at age 15 she was recruited for the St. Louis Chorus Vaudeville Show. During the Harlem Renaissance, Josephine found her way to New York City where she performed in various venues.

Josephine Baker was born Freda Josephine McDonald on June 3, 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri. Living in the slums of St. Louis. Starting from the age of eight Josephine was put to work cleaning houses. Josephine’s street corner dancing attracted attention and at age 15 she was recruited for the St. Louis Chorus Vaudeville Show. During the Harlem Renaissance, Josephine found her way to New York City where she performed in various venues.