**Ruthe Lewin Winegarten** (August 26, 1929 – June 14, 2004) was an American author, activist, and historian known for her significant contributions to the documentation of Black women’s history in Texas. Born in Dallas, Texas, Winegarten’s journey as a Manifesting Generator in Human Design shaped her dynamic approach to storytelling and activism. With an Emotional Inner Authority, she navigated her life by responding to her feelings and the needs of those around her, which deeply influenced her work.

In the 1970s, while at the University of Texas at Dallas, Winegarten compiled an oral history of Annie Mae Hunt, capturing the poignant recollections of Hunt’s family history, including their experiences of slavery. This project culminated in the widely acclaimed book, *I Am Annie Mae: A Black Texas Woman in Her Own Words*, which later inspired a musical drama. Her ability to connect with others and respond to their narratives was a hallmark of her Manifesting Generator energy, allowing her to bring forth powerful stories that resonated with many.

Winegarten served as the director of Austin’s Women’s Center and was appointed in 1979 as the Curator of the Texas Women’s History Project. Under her leadership, the project developed the touring exhibit “Texas Women: A Celebration of History,” which now resides at Texas Woman’s University. Her work earned her recognition, including two Liz Carpenter Awards for her books *Black Texas Women: 150 Years of Trial and Triumph* and *Capitol Women: Texas Female Legislators 1923–1999*, co-authored with Nancy Baker Jones.

As a 4/6 Profile in Human Design, Winegarten embodied the role of a role model and teacher, drawing on her life experiences to inspire others. Her Incarnation Cross, the Right Angle Cross of The Sleeping Phoenix (59/55 | 20/34), reflects her transformative journey and her ability to rise from challenges, much like the mythical phoenix. This energy was evident in her dedication to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.

Winegarten was a devoted mother to three children: Martha Frances Addington (1952–2007), Marc David Sanders (1954–), and Debra Lou Winegarten (1957–). She faced personal struggles later in life, including early stages of dementia, and tragically passed away on June 14, 2004, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound while living in an assisted-living facility. Her legacy continues to inspire those who seek to understand and celebrate the rich history of Black women in Texas and beyond.

For more information, visit her [Wikipedia biography](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruthe_Lewin_Winegarten).