What do an agricultural inventor, a visionary sculptor and grocery-turned-bookstore owner have in common? They're all Black New Englanders who you probably don't know much about – but definitely should. Here are 10 individuals' stories to learn during Black History Month. Who helped organize the National Federation of Afro-American Women? Ruffin is later credited with organizing the National Federation of Afro-American Women in 1895. She also convened the first National Conference of the Colored Women of America, which drew attendees to Boston from 14 states. She was a founding charter member of the NAACP in 1910. Today, Ruffin is among six influential women depicted in bronze busts at the Mass. State House.