Sandy Cornish

Sandy Cornish (1793–1869) was an African American farmer, businessperson, and civic leader in Key West, Florida. As a former slave who purchased his freedom, he publicly maimed himself to prevent being returned to slavery.

Slavery and freedom Cornish was born into slavery in Maryland in 1793.

Key West Around 1850, Cornish and Lillah bought a Key West farm in the now Truman Avenue area near Simonton Street. Selling vegetables and fruits to residents, he became one of the wealthiest people in Key West. He was a leader of the local black community and the founder of the Cornish Chapel of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, now the Cornish Memorial AME Zion church and chapel, which still stands at 702 Whitehead Street.

He died in 1869 at the age of 76. Speakers described his life as an inspiring testament to human freedom. City Commissioner Clayton Lopez, presiding over the ceremony, said, "His actions in life show that he was not going to accept the fate developed for him by lesser men. He is a legend that continues to point the way to human dignity to this day."

Recognition A memorial bust of Cornish is included in the Mallory Square Sculpture Garden, which honors people who had a significant impact on Key West.