Herlda Senhouse

Supercentenarian data for the USA

  • Full name: Herlda Senhouse (née Fairfax)
  • Lifespan: (28.02.1911 – 16.11.2024)
  • Age: 113 years, 262 days
  • Birthplace: Piedmont, Mineral County, West Virginia, USA
  • Last residence: Wellesley, Norfolk County, Massachusetts, USA
  • Application date: 03.03.2023
  • Validation date: 07.04.2023
  • Validation source: Robert Young/Waclaw Jan Kroczek/Oliver Trim

Herlda Senhouse was born in Piedmont, West Virginia, USA on 28 February 1911 to John and Isabella “Belle” (née Saunders) Fairfax.

During her early childhood, Herlda Senhouse experienced the loss of both her parents. She relocated to Woburn, Massachusetts, USA, where she found a home with her uncle and aunt. Her determination shone through, as she became the first in her family to graduate from high school in 1931. Her marriage to William Senhouse lasted until his passing in January 1998. Later in life, Herlda Senhouse established what would become known as Boston’s Clique Club, a social organization comprising dancers and musicians dedicated to supporting the education of Black students. Her generosity extended to assisting numerous Black students with expenses ranging from books to college tuition.

On her remarkable 110th birthday in 2021, Herlda Senhouse displayed a remarkable memory, recalling events from her childhood, including the 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic. When asked about the secret to her longevity, she imparted the wisdom of resolving issues to the best of one’s ability and, if unresolvable, letting them go to minimize stress—a philosophy that had served her well.

At the age of 112, Herlda Senhouse continued to maintain her mobility with the assistance of a walker.

Herlda Senhouse died in Wellesley, Massachusetts, USA on 16 November 2024 at the age of 113 years, 262 days.

Longevity recognition

  • Oldest living person in Massachusetts (25.05.2023 – 16.11.2024)

Validation

Her age was verified by Robert Young, Waclaw Jan Kroczek and Oliver Trim, and validated by the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) on 7 April 2023.

Herlda Senhouse in her youth.

Herlda Senhouse at age 105.

Herlda Senhouse at age 111.

Herlda Senhouse at age 112.

Pictures were sourced from WCVB and CBS Boston News.