The NARDCWC began with an Act of Incorporation on Feb 14, 1863 for the purpose of “supporting such aged or indigent colored women and children as may properly come under the charge of such Association; to provide for them a suitable home, board, clothing, and instruction, and to bring them under Christian influence….” [1]It was one of many associations formed to deal with the migration of Blacks that arrived in Washington, DC after the Civil War, the most notable of which was the Freedman’s Bureau.The initial incorporators were Sayles Bowen, who became Mayor of Washington, Daniel Breed and George E Baker.

The plight of the elderly women and children flocking the government gained the sentiment of many important women whose influence persuaded the ruling powers to begin the rescue work. The efforts officially began under the direction of General O.O. Howard, head of the Freedman’s Bureau, along with a young Lieutenant John Eaton who was the US Commissioner of Education.